Rediscovering the potential of The Silk District

An open approach

An exciting and complex brief attracted a range of design experts. Peldon Rose chose to take an individual approach, setting out to understand the client’s unique situation before putting forward a proposal that gave the developers a full view of their planning obligations and a design vision which adhered to them. Forming a relationship that allowed for open communication was crucial and called for a collaborative process in which Peldon Rose was able to offer its expertise in tailoring Mount Anvil’s ideas in conjunction with their retained leasing agents Compton.

A-grade Cat A

The design of the 34,800 sq ft Cat A space was inspired by areas textile making history while bringing its character into the 21st century. Long lighting strips run through the space to embody the ribbons and silks of the area’s past through modern technology. The elements added are elegant but subtle, acknowledging the flexibility needed for the design to fit well with future occupiers.

Proven sustainability credentials are a key draw for potential occupiers, and are likely to be a top priority for future tenants. Peldon Rose was able to deliver a space that was rated as Excellent by BREEAM, allowing Mount Anvil and L&Q to position sustainability as an asset, and provide a powerful starting point for occupiers who want to build a workplace that supports and protects the environment at its core.

Kevin Wither continued: “Cat A is the backbone of any project, and we pay close attention to the details which might not be the main focus for clients, until they potentially stop working or become a problem. We went beyond getting the basic ‘behind the scenes’ right, and we took inspiration from a long and impactful history, helping to create a sense of identity for future tenants”.

Ready to work

Developing the 3,500 sq ft ready-to-work space involved carefully balancing an attractive, striking design with one which still presented opportunities for businesses to put their own stamp on.

When it came to giving the space character, Peldon Rose again highlighted elements of The Silk District’s history. Redd Lyon, one of the first iconic Elizabethan playhouses which once stood in the area, was invoked through key details like the large dramatic mirrors in the bathrooms which bring a sense of aesthetic grandeur.

Colours were also chosen to work with existing aspects of the building, with greens offset by natural light, creating a powerful yet friendly atmosphere. The design is dynamic, with the colours flowing with visitors as they move through the space. Warmer tones provide an inviting feel upon arrival, but soon give way to a bolder palette in boardrooms and work-focused areas to bring focus and productivity; whilst tea points have been given a soft green that spills onto the floorplate.

To encourage future occupants to celebrate their own unique working culture, walls were left blank in high-visibility and high-traffic areas. Similarly, the colours chosen are bold but have been implemented with simplicity, establishing the design delivered as a foundation to be built upon.

Potential unlocked

The Silk District sits in an area that is just beginning to realise its new potential, and the development is central to Whitechapel’s regeneration. Unlocking the potential of both the Cat A and ready-to-work spaces required a flexible approach from Peldon Rose, to bring to life a powerful past, but one to be populated by the futures of the tenants that will call the space home. Outwardly, it is the design that leads in both areas, but the attention given to planning and practical details ensures that it is built to last.