Details
Brick Manufacturer: Wienerberger Limited
Architect: Studio RHE Limited
Brickwork Contractor: Grangewood Brickwork Services Limited
About the project
The former Headquarters of Sanderson Fabrics and subsequently of Saga Records at the epicentre of reggae music in London, The Gramophone Works is a new canal side commercial scheme constructed using the latest in timber technology to create a sustainable and healthy workplace environment. The distinctive design takes it’s cues from the industrial heritage of the site as well as historic links to the music industry, creating a vibrant and characterful waterside working campus.
The existing 1930s building, was designed to be extended upwards as the owner’s business grew. In order to facilitate this a heavily engineered structure was constructed with column stubs protruding from the roof as well as two 5 storey circulation towers. The new building seeks to finally fulfil the ambitions of the original architect by retaining the existing structure to be re-used as the foundation for extending upwards to maximise the site’s commercial potential.
The building consists of a solid brick base with punched hole glazed openings that are reminiscent of the Canal side warehouse architecture of the past. Above this a set-back contemporary glazed facade rises skywards. The aluminium fins take their rhythm from the brick penetrations below and contrast strongly with the solid base which grounds itself to the site.
Sponsored by Ketley Brick
Manufacturers of clay pavers and 'Class A' bricks for both facing and engineering applications in Staffordshire blue, brown brindle and red as well as a wide range of bricks slips, special bricks and paver fittings and accessories. Our expertise and flexibility allows us to tackle all kinds of projects from bespoke clay products and special shapes to standard engineering as well as class a special bricks, in large or small volumes.
