Wimshurst Pelleriti (WP) has completed the renovation and extension of a historic office building in Richmond for client CBRE Global Investors. Planning was approved within five months and the building completed earlier this year, 15 months after permission was granted.
Occupying a tight site in central Richmond, Indigo House is in the heart of a conservation area surrounded by historic properties, many of which are listed, which demanded a very sensitive approach to the design and planning process. In response WP submitted a carefully detailed glass extension on the ground floor where there was no impact on the conservation area, with a more sensitive approach to the roof extension which overlooked and could be seen from surrounding properties.
Through engagement with local consultees and Richmond’s conservation team, Wimshurst Pelleriti demonstrated that the plans for the proposed extension would not reduce privacy, block out light or impact the historic nature of the surrounding properties, and the application was approved.
The design features a frameless glass extension with green roof at ground floor level that brings far more natural light into an unobstructed ground floor plan, while the new second floor, built in place of an existing plant area, features zinc cladding and dormer windows to blend with the character of surrounding properties. The refurbished interior has a light-industrial feel, featuring a minimalist palate, with an exposed structure, exposed brickwork and exposed services, and timber flooring throughout.
The building has been transformed into a characterful and high-quality office with a strong appeal to potential tenants. The refurbishment and extensions have created considerable additional floor space and the office appeals to a new type of occupier without compromising the beautiful conservation area that surrounds it.
Professional Team:
- STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: Thomasons
- M&E: Quinn Ross
- MAIN CONTRACTOR: Scott Osborn
- QS: Jam-Management
- HERITAGE CONSULTANT: Montagu Evans
- INTERIOR DESIGNER: Wimshurst Pelleriti
- PROJECT MANAGER: CogentBC