Skill in balancing original structure and new finishes
RMI Architects for Karl Group
Contract value: Confidential
GIA: 3,400m²
This project involves the refurbishment and repurposing of a former Victorian linen warehouse, in a conservation area immediately to the south of Belfast City Hall. The success of the scheme, which secured full occupancy before completion, depends on the skill shown in balancing the retention of original structure and fabric with the insertion of new finishes and servicing to provide grade A office space above ground-floor restaurant and café uses.
In the original three upper floors of the building, sections of Belfast red brick and old pitch pine timbered floors have been retained and repaired, and the robust early concrete structure exposed to good effect. A new top-floor glulam timber structure has been added to give the building a ‘lid’ and its floor to ceiling glazing enables panoramic views over the city and surrounding countryside.
Conservation Award
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