Charterhouse
Charterhouse Buildings sits in a prominent position on the corner of Goswell Road and Old Street in Clerkenwell.
This design and build project employed Brennan to refurbish an existing office building both externally and internally, and construct a two-storey vertical extension. The building retains commercial space at street level and these tenants remained in situ throughout the course of the project.
The Challenge
The project enabled Brennan to demonstrate our strength in handling logistical challenges. The combination of the building’s location at a busy City junction, its proximity to other buildings and incumbent tenants meant that planning, detailed programming and precise co-ordination was essential throughout the works.
Solution
The works included asbestos removal, demolition of the lift shaft, rear façade, and third-floor roof. A lightweight steel frame for the extension was constructed, incorporating timber joists and SFS cavity brickwork. Full mechanical and electrical installations were carried out throughout the building, including air conditioning. A new ‘green roof’ was installed, along with decking at the fifth-floor level to form a panoramic balustrade.
Additionally, a man-safe system was installed to enable access to the roof-level plant. Internally, the space was reconfigured, including the installation of a new lift and the construction of the lift shaft. The stairs were repositioned to maximise the floor area. Feature walls were created using stripped-back brick, and the fit-out and reconfiguration of Pret-a-Manger, one of the ground floor retail tenants, was completed.
The finished building is modern, yet it retains its Victorian industrial aesthetic. Visible M&E works in the ceiling space are a feature of this development. Moving the internal walls and staircases has resulted in large, airy office areas that are practical for the client to let out.
4
