Subject to a legal agreement, Camden Council gives go ahead to Barr Gazetas’ restoration of 70s architectural landmark Whittington House, WC1E on behalf of leading developer Great Portland Estates plc (GPE). Comprising over 100,000 sq ft of Grade A workspace, the sensitive restoration breathes new life into Richard Seifert’s original design.
Whittington House, WC1E places key focuses on conservation, user experience and sustainability. Located in Bloomsbury, London, and just a short walk from Goodge Street station, Whittington House will positively contribute to the Bloomsbury Conservation Area.
The refurbishment sees the creation of a new rooftop pavilion and terrace, inspired by the unique geometry of the existing building. The floor area will increase by over 1,000 sq ft and provide new terraces, plus improved amenities throughout the building including a reimagined ground floor entrance and end-of-trip facilities.
Whittington House currently stands with a bold, geometric presence in central London, with a highly reflective façade incorporating both glass and black stone. The approved plans retain the existing façade and approximately 99% of the structure, substantially reducing the project’s embodied carbon while also maintaining the building’s historic presence and character.
With sustainability at its core, Barr Gazetas’ plans also propose a variety of amendments to improve the energy performance of the building, including glazing with a low g-value to reduce overheating in summer, incorporating biophilia throughout the office and introducing materials with low Volatile Organic Compound content to support air quality. Plans also include innovative reuse of materials, including reclaimed steelwork.
As well as providing a light-filled, multi-purpose space, the new rooftop pavilion will include a flexible indoor-outdoor terrace with panoramic views, as well as 26 species of planting and retractable shading for use in all seasons.
Barr Gazetas’ proposals enhance accessibility and inclusivity, with step-free access and carefully considered signage that uses colour and materials to provide a variety of spaces. Meanwhile, the basement will be upgraded to include end-of-trip facilities such as bike storage, showers, changing rooms and wellness spaces.
At ground level, the entrance has been reconfigured to provide a generous and welcoming arrival experience, replacing the existing reception with an open plan waiting area. The redesign improves connectivity to Alfred Place Gardens, the adjacent park that serves as a popular outdoor social hub.
The Whittington House restoration will significantly enhance the user experience, delivering a contemporary and appealing workspace that meets the demands of modern working life.
Barr Gazetas Associate, Magnus Wills, said: “This project is about giving a remarkable building a new lease of life without compromising its identity. Whittington House is an iconic part of Bloomsbury and we’ve worked hard to ensure every proposed intervention is respectful, sustainable, and future facing.”