THE PROJECT

This Victorian warehouse flat conversion in Shoreditch involved adapting a former workshop and warehouse building to create contemporary residential apartments while retaining commercial space at ground level.

The design approach focused on preserving the industrial character of the original structure while introducing modern layouts suited to contemporary living and working.

Residential Apartments Within a Historic Structure

The upper floors were converted to create three one-bedroom apartments and one larger two-bedroom apartment.

Each dwelling was designed to maximise natural light and make full use of the building’s generous Victorian warehouse windows. Careful spatial planning ensured that all apartments exceeded minimum residential space standards while maintaining the character of the original structure.

Existing features such as exposed timber soffits, joinery and decorative ironwork were retained wherever possible, allowing the new interiors to reflect the industrial heritage of the building.

Preserving the Victorian Warehouse Character

Originally constructed as a three-storey workshop and warehouse, the building contained a number of distinctive architectural elements that defined its character.

Throughout the refurbishment these features were carefully restored, including:

• exposed timber structure
• timber floor joists and soffits
• original ironwork detailing

One of the most technically challenging aspects of the project involved maintaining exposed timber soffits while complying with modern fire protection requirements. Through close collaboration with Building Control, a strategy was developed that allowed the soffits to remain visible while meeting regulatory standards.

Contemporary Workspace at Ground Level

The ground floor was reconfigured to provide approximately 1,550 sq ft of office space.

A mezzanine level was introduced to increase usable floor area while maintaining generous ceiling heights within the original warehouse volume.

Retaining commercial use at ground level ensured the development continued to contribute to Shoreditch’s vibrant creative and business community.

Maximising Space Through Architectural Design

Additional outdoor amenity space was introduced through the creation of roof terraces, providing valuable external areas for residents within a dense urban setting.

The loft level of the building was also reconfigured to form split-level apartments that respond to the stepped rear facade. Original king-post roof trusses were exposed within the interior spaces, creating dramatic architectural features that celebrate the building’s historic structure.

Sustainability and Long-Term Performance

The refurbishment incorporated modern insulation and energy-efficient materials to improve the building’s environmental performance while respecting its historic fabric. This reflects the principles explored in our green architecture and sustainable building guide.

This approach demonstrates how careful architectural design can allow historic buildings to be adapted for contemporary use while extending their lifespan for future generations.

Considering a Flat Conversion or Building Refurbishment?

Conversions of historic buildings require a careful balance between preservation and modern living standards. Through thoughtful design and collaboration with planning permission and Building Control, existing structures can be successfully adapted to create high-quality residential and commercial spaces.

You can explore more of our architectural work in London and across the South East on our architecture London and architecture Canterbury pages.