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Unveiling the Latest Folding Technological Advancement

Thoughtful redesign focuses on well-being, adaptability, and climate robustness in the transformation of a past Victorian furniture warehouse in west London by Morrow + Lorraine.

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Meticulous redesign of a previous Victorian furniture warehouse in west London highlights emphasis...
Meticulous redesign of a previous Victorian furniture warehouse in west London highlights emphasis on wellbeing, adaptability, and resilience to climate change by Morrow + Lorraine.

Unveiling the Latest Folding Technological Advancement

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Reinventing history while keeping an eye on the future: Morrow + Lorraine's fabulous transformation of a Victorian warehouse in west London

📸 Ed Reeve

Morrow + Lorraine has worked wonders on a former Victorian warehouse in West Kensington, London, for AXA Investment Managers, turning it into a modern, flexible, and eco-friendly office space. This redesign effortlessly blends past and present, prioritizing wellness and climate resilience.

Originally designed by Alfred Monday Ridge and built in 1892, this building once supplied goods to Whiteley's Department Stores. Typical of the late Victorian-era's industrial architecture, its intricate details, including terracotta and brick window arches, string courses, and ornate signages, are pure eye candy.

The renovation retains the original structure while introducing modern amenities appropriate for today's workforce. Basement levels now house cycle and commuter facilities, a redesigned entrance, and a spacious reception area. For added adaptability, the masonry spine walls in the existing warehouse floors have been opened up. A sleek, steel-and-timber rooftop extension complete with a landscaped terrace offers fantastic views of London.

Sustainability has been at the forefront of this project, resulting in BREEAM Excellent, WELL Gold, and WiredScore Gold certifications. The schemes incorporates a variety of green technologies, such as renewable energy creation with a PV solar array, energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, solar shading, and vast amounts of natural light. The lightweight rooftop extension even reduces load on the foundation, eliminating the need for reinforcement. To lessen carbon footprint, no concrete is used above ground level.

The interiors feature open plan spaces with minimal finishes, following a long-lasting, adaptable approach. By highlighting the original brickwork and cast iron columns, the project reduces waste while preserving the building's historical charm. The rooftop is decked with native plants to create a serene haven for office workers and support local wildlife. Most of the existing car park space has been repurposed as secure end-of-trip facilities, promoting active commuting.

According to Tom Powell, Associate Director at Morrow + Lorraine, the project "honors the building's heritage, but makes sure it has a future." Consistent with this vision, the adjustments complement the building's character while improving its adaptability to meet modern office demands.

Additional Images📸 Dezeen

CreditsArchitect: Morrow + LorraineStructural Engineer: Davies MaguireServices Engineer: Black and WhitePrincipal Designer: Gardiner and TheobaldCost Consultant: QuantemContractor: Oakmont and DE GroupClient: AXA Investment ManagementProject Manager: Hart Dixon

Enrichment Insights

  • Energy Efficiency Measures: The project features cutting-edge energy-efficient systems to minimize energy consumption. Improved insulation, energy-efficient lighting, and cleverly designed HVAC systems are likely in use.
  • Sustainable Building Materials: Low-impact, eco-friendly materials have been selected for this project to reduce carbon emissions, in line with BREEAM criteria.
  • Indoor Environmental Quality Enhancements: To attain WELL Gold certification, the project prioritizes air quality, natural lighting, and comfortable thermal conditions for occupants' health and well-being.
  • Smart Building Technologies: WiredScore Gold certification implies the installation of modern digital infrastructure for high-speed internet connectivity and smart building management systems that optimize resource usage and occupant comfort.
  • Water Efficiency Improvements: Efficient water management practices, like water-saving fixtures and rainwater harvesting systems, were integrated to minimize water consumption.
  • Waste Reduction and Recycling Strategies: Effective construction waste management, alongside ongoing recycling facilities, contribute to the project's environmental goals.
  1. In the transformation of the Victorian warehouse, travelers can now appreciate its historical charm while enjoying modern office amenities, such as the cycling facilities, sustainable building materials, and energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, making the commute greener.
  2. During breaks or spare time, office workers can gravitate to the rooftop terrace boasting native plants and stunning views of London, shielded from harsh weather by solar shading, creating a serene environment that fosters well-being and connection with nature, embodying the idea of a merged environment and travel.

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