THE PROJECT

This rooftop extension at 80 Great Eastern Street in Shoreditch demonstrates how architectural design and technical coordination can unlock new living space within historic buildings.

The project transformed the roof of a Victorian warehouse into nine bespoke penthouse apartments, carefully integrating contemporary architecture with the character of the original structure.

The scheme was later recognised with the Award for Excellence in Architectural Technology, acknowledging the complex structural engineering and architectural design required to deliver the project.

Transforming a Victorian Warehouse

The original Victorian warehouse offered a unique opportunity to create new residential space above an existing structure.

However, the roof was previously occupied by outdated mechanical plant equipment. By relocating this equipment to the basement, valuable rooftop space was unlocked for development.

Creating the extension required extensive structural strengthening across the building to ensure resilience against disproportionate collapse.

Steel beams and columns were carefully threaded through the original Victorian walls and floors, reinforcing the structure while preserving the historic fabric of the building.

This approach allowed the new rooftop extension to sit securely above the existing warehouse without compromising its architectural character.

Architectural Design Inspired by Japanese Minimalism

The architectural language of the rooftop extension draws inspiration from the elegance and restraint of Japanese architecture.

Black timber cladding, influenced by the Shou Sugi Ban technique, provides a striking contrast against the warm tones of the Victorian brickwork below.

The design carefully balances modern architectural expression with sensitivity to the existing building.

Recessed windows and structural glazing create depth within the façade while maximising natural light throughout the apartments.

Internally, the penthouses benefit from expansive glazing and open-plan layouts, offering spectacular views across North Shoreditch and the London skyline.

Private Rooftop Terraces in the Heart of London

One of the defining features of the development is the inclusion of private rooftop terraces for every apartment.

Outdoor space is rare in central London developments, particularly within historic buildings. These terraces provide residents with tranquil outdoor areas overlooking the surrounding cityscape.

The design integrates these outdoor spaces directly with the internal living areas, allowing the apartments to feel open, bright and connected to the skyline.

At ground level, the entrance foyer echoes design elements used in the rooftop extension, creating a cohesive architectural language throughout the building.

Technical Design and Building Regulation Compliance

Delivering a rooftop extension of this scale required rigorous technical coordination to meet modern building regulations while maintaining architectural integrity.

Key technical solutions included:

Smoke Ventilation

Strategically positioned rooflights double as smoke ventilation outlets, ensuring regulatory compliance while maintaining the architectural composition of the roof.

Integrated Lighting

Recessed plasterboard slots conceal LED strip lighting, creating subtle ambient illumination without interrupting the clean interior design.

Refined Entrance Detailing

Apartment doors were recessed within the corridors to allow discreet task lighting and create a more refined architectural finish.

These solutions demonstrate how careful technical design can integrate safety requirements without compromising the architectural vision.

Sustainable Design Strategy

Sustainability formed an important part of the development, which was designed to achieve Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4.

Environmental features incorporated within the project include:

• Green roof systems to improve biodiversity and thermal performance
• Triple glazing to reduce heat loss and external noise
• Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) systems
• Enhanced insulation within timber frame construction

Internally, each penthouse was finished to a high specification, including engineered timber flooring, contemporary bathrooms and rooflights that introduce natural light into staircases and circulation areas.

Black Timber Cladding and Structural Glass

The rooftop extension is visually defined by the use of black timber cladding paired with structural glazing.

Floor-to-ceiling glass panels maximise daylight and frame expansive views across London, while the dark timber cladding gives the extension a bold yet refined architectural identity.

This combination creates a contemporary addition that complements rather than competes with the historic Victorian warehouse below.

Award Recognition

The project received the Award for Excellence in Architectural Technology, recognising the successful integration of architectural design, structural engineering and technical delivery.

The award highlights the complexity of transforming a historic building while introducing modern residential accommodation above the existing structure.

A Landmark Rooftop Extension in Shoreditch

The rooftop extension at 80 Great Eastern Street demonstrates how innovative architectural design can transform underused rooftop space into valuable residential accommodation.

Through careful structural coordination, contemporary architecture and sustainable design strategies, the project successfully delivers nine unique penthouse apartments above a historic London warehouse.

Considering a Rooftop Extension?

Rooftop extensions can unlock significant potential in existing buildings, particularly in dense urban locations where expanding outward is not possible.

Our architecture team provides design and technical expertise to help clients explore the possibilities of rooftop development while navigating planning, structural and regulatory constraints.

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