The design process in this project attends to the restoration and adaptive reuse of an old heritage building, to accommodate the new requirements of an office. This is the first in a set of three adaptive re-use projects done at the estate of ASE ltd.

The existing structure has thick load bearing walls and a jack arch slab creating a large volume with a 15 ft. high ceiling. The walls, jack arches, and windows have been repaired and restored with careful consideration of their original character. The adaptation from the inside follows the robust character of the old structure and responds to its high volume, while adding a mezzanine slab, partitions and interior elements.

The structure for the mezzanine has been developed in steel and wooden floor boards and the partitions made in a combination of glass and wooden storage units. These interior elements provide a light weight yet harmonious counter point to the heaviness of the old masonry shell. This harmonious balance between the old structure and the new additions also informs the making of the loose furniture and  detailing of the interior elements.