The Frames is a bespoke development in Shoreditch providing 80,000 sq ft of workspace tailored for small to medium creative businesses. The client, Workspace, sought an exemplar creative development showcasing a move away from their standard ‘business centre’ model towards a co-working approach, whilst retaining individual business units and maximising lettable area.
With the existing building failing to contribute to the South Shoreditch Conservation Area, the team committed to crafting an intrinsically ‘Shoreditch’ development, designed to relate to the area’s traditional warehouse vernacular whilst providing a contemporary office building. The resulting five-storey building provides office and studio units alongside communal meeting rooms, break-out areas, tea points, cycle storage, shower facilities and a café.
The building envelope employs a palette of brick, weathered metal and glass. Following the curved street line with brick columns punctuated by corten-clad window reveals, the design emphasises the building’s vertical proportions. The top two floors are set back with feature twisted, perforated aluminium fins referencing the historic textile manufacturing industry of the neighbourhood and providing solar shading.
A language of raw materials continues inside with polished concrete floors, exposed soffits, corten-clad lift cores and a striking folded steel staircase. A bespoke installation by renowned artist Mr. Jago creates a unique double-height mural in the main reception space.
The new development establishes a positive connection to its setting and creates a modern and inspiring workplace.
To see more amazing entries from this year’s WAN Awards please click here.