The retrofit of a 1980s brutalist building in Covent Garden. By retaining 80% of the existing structure and adding 65,000 square feet of premium space, the design balances carbon, cost, and architectural value. Structural knowledge of the original design enabled safe, efficient upgrades, improving both performance and public-facing urban integration.
A clear and accomplished example of large-scale retrofit that demonstrates the value of structural engineering in city-centre transformation. Combining elegant structural interventions with well-planned temporary works, the team kept the buildings safe and serviceable while significantly improving their urban presence. The project sets a strong precedent for retrofit-led renewal, balancing technical care with sustainable ambition.