9 The Crescent

The existing site houses a disused former Malthouse, which has been partial retained and repurposed as the entrance to the proposed development. A new build infill provides a distinctive modern identity that drawings on the industrial railway heritage of the surroundings. The unique roof profile echoes the former kiln roof and the multi pile roof of local railway engine sheds and diminishes in scale to respond to the prevailing context. Hit and miss brickwork maintains a relatively solid appearance, and combined with large rooflights and atrium, provide a good quality of diffused daylight to the office space.

During the pandemic the layouts were redesigned to factor in changing working patterns and behaviours. Each floorplate has been carefully designed to encourage ‘agile working’, providing manageable and flexible open plan offices, specifically designed for effective collaboration. The design of the development also allows for the potential introduction of smaller smart meeting rooms for the continuation of virtual meetings.

The proposals also include the use of larger informal social spaces, such as more substantial kitchens and breakout areas. This will see the workplace become more of creative interaction space, shifting the office into a setting for innovation and engagement. Other features include a plant filled atrium which will be used for natural ventilation and an emphasis on bringing natural daylight into the building and landscaping, to enhance the wellbeing of future occupants of the building.

Vincent & Partners provided full architectural services in the role of lead consultant with scheme gaining planning consent in October 2021.