The client had been exploring their refurbishment options for a long time, but for various reasons the project had been repeatedly postponed, until FT Architects’ came on board in 2022 with a quality scheme that brings a new character to the building.

The rust tones of the interior design were inspired by the street name and exterior brickwork. The main entrance is framed by dramatic orange copper to elevate its position and establish a unique identity for the workplace, with rusty orange tones flowing through the entire building.

With a subtle elegance 20 Orange Street stands out from its surroundings and offers a pleasant work environment to existing and new tenants.

The refurbishment works brought the workspace up to current standards with a focus on the safety and wellbeing of office users.  Communal areas were upgraded with fire protection lobbies, showers and bike stores were installed in the basement, and office floors and the reception area were redesigned and refurbished. On three occupied floors refurbishment work was kept to a minimum, but unoccupied floors were fully refurbished, and the first floor is fully fitted out. The existing stairs and toilets were also refurbished and upgraded to comply with building regulations.

We worked closely with our client, the project contractor, Neilcott Construction,  and quantity surveyors, Huntley Cartwright. Construction work took place while rented office floors remained occupied, so the project programme was arranged around their requirements. Maintaining communication with these tenants was a crucial element of our role throughout the project. As soon as work on-site began we started conversations with each subcontractor to coordinate and establish the final finishes, fitting and every little detail. Personally I love this part of the work - discussing details with carpenters and metalworkers is an enjoyable process where ideas are bounced back and forth until a satisfying solution is found. The exchange between the disciplines and the creativity in each of those conversations - this is where the magic happens.

And now we have all worked our magic and the refurbished building is standing there shining in its new dress. The clients, supporting staff and the tenants are already enjoying it and we are so pleased to contribute to improving the quality of working life for all those people.