16
INSIGHTS
Looking back over three decades, Emrys sees longevity as one of the practice’s most meaningful achievements
Sustainability has long been closely tied to the practice’s approach, particularly shown through its work in retrofi t. However, Emrys questions an approach that focuses too heavily on numerical targets at the expense of the wider picture. He explains, “We have always enjoyed the challenge of working in the world of retrofi t.” However, the architect admits, “what does irritate me sometimes is this fi xation on numbers. There should be a more holistic view as to the best next life for a building.“
Projects The practice’s approach is best understood through its projects, such as how they demonstrate an ability to fi nd new possibilities within existing buildings. Retrofi t has been central to Emrys since its inception, with recent schemes showing how environmental considerations can be combined with ambitious design. One recently completed project that illustrates this exploratory approach is a retrofi t offi ce building on King Bench Street, near London Bridge, for GMS Estates. Originally an old fi zzy drink bottling plant, the building will be marketed under the name Soda. “It was our oldest unbuilt project” he confi rms. In 2014, the practice was asked to obtain planning for “as large a building as possible” on the site – this included a full basement, where none existed before. However, given building infl ation over the years, this proved unviable. “Second time around, we were asked to look at a much more carbon friendly retrofi t solution. It was also a viable scheme – so win, win!” The project shows how changing economic and environmental considerations can prompt a fundamentally different, lower-carbon approach. A more new-build oriented offi ce project in the City of London saw the practice combine new construction with the retention of an existing historic facade. The 56,000 ft2
offi ce building, designed for
CLI Dartriver, replaces two poor-quality buildings while retaining the facade of Sixty Three Coleman Street. Contemporary facades to Coleman Street and Moorgate refl ect the locality through limestone, black faience and bronze window frames, alongside a communal rooftop terrace, yoga and relaxation space, and end-of- journey facilities. In Bloomsbury, the Courtyard building for Great Portland Estates brings together two buildings to create a fl exible offi ce offering. The existing courtyard will be glazed over as an events and seminar space, while a new fourth fl oor will provide communal facilities, including a bar, meeting rooms and terraces. A repurposed cupola will form a garden room. At Glasshouse Street, Grade II-listed buildings for The Crown Estate are being transformed into offi ce and retail space, with two light wells combined to create a dramatic atrium. A sculptural staircase will form the centrepiece, complemented by extensive roof terraces and communal spaces.
Tracking technology Looking back over three decades, Emrys sees longevity as one of the practice’s most meaningful achievements. The practice continues a working relationship with clients it has known for more than 25
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GLAZED EXPRESSION
The Courtyard building in Bloosmbury’s eponymous courtyard has been glazed over to provide an events and seminar space © Emrys Architects
years, while relationships with some consultants used stretch back more than 35 years. For the practice, these enduring relationships are rooted in a shared ambition to keep improving. Awards and industry recognition are welcomed, but Emrys places greater value on what happens beyond the awards circuit. “Awards are always welcome, but probably industry recognition, repeat business, and of course any recommendation, is probably more valuable.” In that sense, the longevity of the practice’s relationships and the continued return of clients provide a measure of success that is less visible but perhaps more signifi cant. Technology is inevitably becoming part of that evolution. AI is already being used within the practice on the creative side, particularly to turn three-dimensional information, basic sketches and Revit outputs into highly realistic visualisations. Rather than simply presenting an abstract design, these tools can give clients an immediate sense of how a building might look, feel and function. For Emrys himself, the most interesting question is where the technology goes next. “The power of AI is evolving so fast, in so many areas, who knows how we will use it in the future.” For a practice whose history has been shaped by changing economic conditions, procurement, regulation and the evolving demands of retrofi t, that openness to what comes next is emblematic of the way the architect has operated throughout his career.
ADF OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2026
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