References Live & Work Space House
Rethinking the ensemble: Tower and block form the spatial framework for the Space House – a brutalist pairing consisting of a sculptural round structure and an edifice on a strict grid, reactivated in 2024 for contemporary ways of working. (Image source: Danica O. Kus)
Space House
The Space House – a brutalist landmark dating from 1968 and designed by Richard Seifert & Partners – is located in London’s Covent Garden district, famous for its lively cultural life and architectural diversity. Squire & Partners and Seaforth Land have collaborated to transform the listed building ensemble into a contemporary working and living space on an area of more than 24,000 m². 90 percent of the original structure was retained, and both the cylindrical part of the building (“The Tower”) as well as the rectangular structure (“The Block”) have been opened up. The result: spacious floor plans with bright lobbies and new roof terraces.Sanitary architecture with attitude
The design of the sanitary areas is also in keeping with the building’s clear architectural approach. The project incorporates the ME by Starck range by Duravit, the minimalistic design language and precise geometry of which reinforce the expression of space. The pared-down design of the wall-mounted toilets and urinals are consistent with the structured materiality of the building and creates a continuity of design right down to the last detail.
Heritage as foundation
Squire & Partners conduct the dialog between old and new through the selection of materials throughout the whole building: the original mosaic tiles are retained in the stairwells, while the newly laid terrazzo tiles lend a calm, contemporary touch to the common areas. Exposed concrete and the radial structure of the ceilings amplify the spatial presence of the legacy structure – with integrated, energy-efficient cooling systems marking a technical evolution.
Future made visible
By retaining the supporting structure, incorporating intelligent building technology, and creating appealing ambience, Space House hits all the criteria for a sustainable revitalization. The project has been awarded certifications such as BREEAM “Outstanding”, Net Zero Carbon, Fitwel, and WiredScore Platinum. The Twentieth Century Society regards it as one of “'the coolest new office developments of 2024”.
Infobox:
Architect: Richard Seifert & Partners
Year of construction: 1968
Revitalization: Squire & Partners
Completion of revitalization: 2024
Duravit products installed: ME by Starck wall toilet and urinals
Rethinking the ensemble: Tower and block form the spatial framework for the Space House – a brutalist pairing consisting of a sculptural round structure and an edifice on a strict grid, reactivated in 2024 for contemporary ways of working. (Image source: Danica O. Kus)
Detailed tectonics: Terrazzo, wood, and vertical grooves emphasize the expertly crafted spatial logic. (Image source: Danica O. Kus)
Detailed tectonics: Terrazzo, wood, and vertical grooves emphasize the expertly crafted spatial logic. (Image source: Danica O. Kus)
Understatement as a principle: The urinals from Duravit incorporate clear functionality and formal simplicity – harmonizing with the overall material choice and spatial concept. (Image source: Danica O. Kus)
Category
Live & Work
Country
United Kingdom
Architect
Squire & Partners
Duravit Products
ME by Starck
Live & Work
Country
United Kingdom
Architect
Squire & Partners
Duravit Products
ME by Starck
