New Brook Buildings, London WC2
Client: Henderson Global Investors
New Brook Buildings are a group of 1958 office buildings situated on Great Queen Street in Holborn, refurbished for Henderson Global Investors.
JRA brought the buildings up to contemporary standards by remodeling the facades, giving the tower a new elevational treatment that emphasises its vertical nature, and the lower block a more horizontal facade treatment which integrates elements of colour. A new extension has been introduced on Parker Street on the north side of the building with a stone treatment to reflect the grain of the adjoining buildings, bringing the development up to 10,000m2 . Internally, JRA relocated plant equipment to provide additional office space at 9th floor level and fit out the interiors in a high quality, modern style. The public realm surrounding New Brook Buildings has also been improved.
A number of sustainability measures have been incorporated throughout the project, including the upgrades to the external envelope, contributing to New Brook Buildings’ BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating and reducing its C02 emissions by approximately 150,000kg per year. It has also been recognised by Architects’ Journal as Highly Commended for the Value Excellence Award, the judges said “This building sends a strong message in field architects should be working in. In terms of quality this building is something quite special.”