“The Garage” Rathbone Street
Location: Fitzrovia, London
Sector: Office / Commercial
Year: 2023
Size: 25,700 sqft
Client: Stevens Properties Ltd
7-9 Rathbone Street was an anonymous old warehouse in Fitzrovia dating back to the 1920s. The entire building was in need of refurbishment providing opportunities to create new roof terraces and improve the building’s image.
During the design process, an old photograph emerged which showed the original building as a garage. The words ‘J.A. Stephens’ over the door revealed a personal connection between the client and his great-grandfather. From this moment on, the project became about reestablishing this lost identity.
Historical features were reinstated, including the original ‘MAGNETOS’ sign and the ornate archway above the doorway. Historical photographs and adverts were used in the stairwell and office floors to remind people of the building’s past.
Fabric ducts made from recycled plastic provided an innovative and sustainable solution for the building’s services. This choice reduced embodied carbon while maintaining a high-quality, machine washable finish.
To connect the largest floorplate to the roof terrace above, a pop-up was built with hanging plants to draw the eye and invite people to explore.
“The Garage” is now back in Fitzrovia.
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A PROTOTYPE FOR BUILDING
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
