Leading architecture practice GT3 Architects has expanded its Newcastle studio, breathing life into derelict former nightclub John Dobson House to create a new workspace.
The firm – which has studios in Newcastle and Nottingham – has purchased the four-storey, grade II listed building on Bridge Street West. The new occupancy will bring a fresh purpose to the site, which has been home to a host of nightclubs in its lifetime.
Simon Dunstan, director at GT3 Architects, said:
“As a Newcastle-based business, it’s important that we’re located in the heart of the city as it undergoes transformational regeneration. We want to be able to offer our colleagues, clients, and visitors a well-connected location, close to the railway station and with all the facilities of our fantastic city on the doorstep.
“We’re pleased to give such a historic building – designed and lived in by one of Newcastle’s most pre-eminent architects – a new lease of life and a sustainable and secure future. Our first priority is to get the building sensitively and comprehensively refurbished. We have a local contractor already on site and are excited to see the transformation progress over the summer.”
The work on John Dobson House will form part of the wider regeneration of this part of Newcastle’s city centre, alongside plans for a new HMRC headquarters in the Pilgrim’s Quarter complex.
GT3 Architects was awarded a national accolade at the Constructing Excellence awards earlier this year for its commitment to ‘People Development’ and will utilise this exciting new office space to nurture its growing team of architects.
The firm has grown its staff base by more than 17% over the past year and the new office space will accommodate this in a series of phases, incorporating flexible work zones, collaborative spaces, quiet corners, an outdoor terrace, and a social kitchen, which can also double up as a movie space.
Michael Simpson, interiors and workplace lead at GT3 Architects, said:
“We’ve got lots of experience designing amazing workspaces to suit the needs of the new working world so this is a great opportunity to employ our creativity and really go to town designing an amazing space for our team. With four levels to play with, our interiors and consultancy teams are working to design a homely, welcoming, and flexible space. Our goal is to deliver a new Geordie home for GT3, which will support our staff, meet the needs of our flexible working policy, and provide a great new meeting and collaboration space for guests and clients.”
GT3 Architects will move into its new grade II listed home later this year.