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Carbon reduction against baseline.

The aim was to create a great building that would respond to its context/environment and that is certainly what Bryden Wood have achieved.The initial challenges posed by the building’s proximity to the Westway and Grand Union canal, as well as the limited site space for construction, have birthed a space of both aesthetic and functional dynamic, equally capable of fulfilling its practical goal of providing creative office spaces to West London creative businesses..

According to O’Neill, the biggest challenge of the project was the building of phase 2 over the fully occupied, existing (phase 1) building.He says that whilst knowing the building would be in use by creative industries did give a sense of freedom regarding the design, ‘it was clear that the building needed to deliver value to ensure we created affordable workspaces.’ These, he notes, are still in shortage in West London.‘It’s stylish yet affordable,’ he says of GWS, ‘and a perfect contrast to the generic, co-working businesses which have established themselves over the past five or so years.’ The ground floor studios are ideal for startups, whilst an upper-story, canal-side unit makes an excellent workspace for an office of 20 plus.. O’Neill loves the diverse collection of creatives and businesses the building has attracted and says he’s ‘glad it has provided GWS and its tenants with a safe, welcoming, happy environment which is conducive to hard, serious and creative business.’ From an architectural perspective, his favourite thing about the building is the gentle curve alongside the canal side elevation.

‘Look again at sites/buildings that may not seem the best option,’ he urges developers who may be considering taking on similar projects.‘ And let the architects do their work.’

The process of delivering built assets has become fragmented.

As a result, value is diluted at every stage.. Design to Value – a unifying approach.We like feeling part of the action.

It’s a great space to work in.’ Whilst not having an external canalside view like the studios on the opposite side of the building, the central atrium floods the tables in the communal area outside their space with lots of natural light.‘In the summer, it’s so sunshiney, some people wear shades,’ she says.

Understandably, the stunning atrium is Burles’ favourite thing about the building, ‘it gives light, it gives a sense of space.’ She also particularly likes being at their end of it, which is tucked away at the opposite end from the main entrance as ‘it’s got that slightly knocked back, industrial, vintage look.’ Chris agrees, calling the exposed steel beams, ‘Industrial Chic.’ He is also a huge fan of the breakout area’s big, wooden tables, which he sees as an extended part of their studio.‘Clients enjoy coming here,’ he says.