Sunnybank, Somerford Booths, Congleton
The client brief was to comprehensively renovate or replace the existing derelict office building, upgrade the external appearance of the industrial buildings, and create a new shared working spaces and office accommodation within one of the industrial units.
proposed design
project details
The proposed office design responds to the brief through largely replanning and recladding of the existing building, together with a modest extension, a new apex roof, and extensive areas of glazing. The design largely retains the existing building footprint due to it’s location within greenbelt and is conceived as either a renovation or rebuild, subject to structural assessment and cost considerations.
The office is clad in charred black timber, formed from nominal 50 mm-wide battens treated using a controlled charring process. This creates a deep black, textured finish while enhancing the timber’s natural resistance to pests, rot, moisture, and fire.
The proposed shared workspace and industrial building renovation responds to the brief by replacing the existing corrugated cladding with new matt black corrugated metal cladding, providing a visual reference to the office building. A new shared office space and mezzanine level are introduced, with retained brickwork and the existing steel structure expressed internally and finished in intumescent yellow paint.
Overall, the material palette, finishes, and signage have been carefully considered to unify the buildings, ensuring they read as a cohesive development with a clear and consistent architectural identity.