22 Shad Thames

The building served as a showroom, office and apartment for renowned designer David Mellor until the late 90s, then became home to Terence Conran and his practice Conran and Partners until 2020. The sensitive retrofit improves accessibility, sustainability, and flexibility throughout, bringing the beloved building in line with modern, high quality workspaces while respecting its storied past.

Previously residential accommodation, the fourth and fifth floors have been converted to provide additional workspaces. On the fifth floor, a steel and timber infill to an existing stair void creates additional floorspace and enables an improved layout. A steel and timber conservatory with a trapezoidal steel deck roof has replaced an existing glazed roof structure at roof level — an evolution of the design feature that serves to provide an abundance of natural light to be enjoyed by the occupants.

Reconfiguration of all floors, including basement, has facilitated improvements to the building services and drainage designs, while an extension to the north core stairwell improves accessibility and fire safety. The central atrium has been reinvigorated to serve as a central hub.

The project was complicated by the building having been added to the National Heritage List for England following the initial planning submission — the design team met this challenge, delivering a scheme that preserves the heritage of the historic riverside location neighbouring Tower Bridge.