engineering.
This project, situated in Clerkenwell, London, comprises a mixture of new-build construction and refurbishment elements. A Grade II-listed building which faces onto St John Street has been converted into office space, with the frontage retained and minimal changes made to the internal structure. Adjacent to this, a new office building of similar proportion to the existing building was introduced, rising to six storeys.
A sensitive restoration and expansion of a landmark historic building that’s starred in several Hollywood films.
The Victorian Farmiloe Building, completed in 1868, comprises timber floor joists bearing onto wrought-iron beams, supported by cast-iron columns. Similarly, the roof structure also consists of wrought-iron trusses. Various structural surveys have been undertaken in the recent past, and it is thought that the building is structurally sound, though some remedial works will be required prior to change of use. It is likely that fireproofing will need to be upgraded to suit current commercial regulations.
Changes to the original structure to enable the architectural desire for office space include the formation of new risers, removal of a supplementary column grid at lower level, and the introduction of various openings in existing load-bearing elements. The updated layout comprises office space and ancillary spaces including rooftop plant rooms, cycle storage and a UKPN substation.
The new-build office space adjacent to the Victorian building is formed from post-tensioned concrete slabs supported on reinforced concrete columns with stabilising cores. To satisfy rights of light requirements and provide an architectural solution sensitive to the surrounding buildings, the upper floors are set back, creating terraces. Substantial demolition works will need to take place prior to construction to remove existing 1930s and shed buildings. Demolition and foundation methods must be carefully chosen to ensure minimal impact on the retained structure.
Explore the full story behind our transformation of this iconic Clerkenwell landmark. In this article, AKT II director Alex Widdison details how the building is being brought into the 21st century, and how its 18th-century character is concurrently being kept alive.
Read the Story Within
