14


feature


clerkenwell offi ce, london


have resulted in a signifi cant reduction in both embodied and operational carbon. The project champions durability, minimal waste, and long-term fl exibility, aligning with core circular economy and retrofi t- fi rst principles: New structural elements were designed


to be lightweight, and primarily loaded onto the new lift and stair core, minimising additional load on the original foundations. This approach eliminated the need underpinning the existing building and thereby avoided unnecessary use of concrete. The project achieves an average EPC


Rating of A for the offi ces and the ground fl oor retail unit.


A new exposed blockwork core


reinterprets a traditional Flemish bond. It uses voided, lightweight blocks, eliminating steel reinforcement and reducing concrete volume by 25%. The visual quality of the architectural masonry is also left exposed and avoids


1 2 3


the need for additional layers of material to be applied. Selective use of solid blocks only where


structurally necessary minimised material waste while establishing a refi ned, contextual fi nish. The retail unit occupying the ground


fl oor and basement can be easily linked to the staircore and lift through pre-designed knock-out wall areas, enabling fl exible future program changes without major structural intervention. The main structural works have also been designed to give the original Victorian Warehouse an additional 150- year lifespan. The project stands as a model of urban adaptive reuse, achieving A-rated energy performance, substantial embodied carbon reduction, and a long-term, fl exible framework. It demonstrates how heritage buildings can meet modern sustainability standards through thoughtful design and a rigorous fabric-fi rst approach.


4


PROPOSED ROOF FFL


39.964 AOD


FIFTH FLOOR FCL


39.102 AOD


FIFTH FLOOR FFL


36.405 AOD


FOURTH FLOOR FFL


33.045 AOD


THIRD FLOOR FFL


29.685 AOD


SECOND FLOOR FFL


26.101 AOD


joists designed to bear great weight. Oversized sashes and clerestory windows wash newly revealed, time-worn surfaces with natural light. The Clerkenwell Offi ce Retrofi t


is a comprehensive, low-carbon transformation, focused on a fabric- fi rst approach. The design successfully integrates the building’s industrial character with outstanding environmental performance through adaptive reuse, innovative material specifi cations, and fossil-fuel-free energy in use. Key design moves, including a bespoke


low-concrete blockwork core, the removal of all gas systems, and the application of higher performing insulation,


FIRST FLOOR FFL


22.293 AOD


GROUND FLOOR (HL) FFL


18.037 AOD


GROUND FLOOR (LL) FFL


17.365 AOD


+0.000


BASEMENT FFL


13.910 AOD


3559


3360


3360


3584


3808


4928


3455


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