A UK Company Breathes New Life into Historic Property

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Chair of the Month

Advanced Commercial Interiors Limited gives new life to a derelict property.

When Advanced Commercial Interiors Limited, a UK company based in Sandiacre, Nottinghamshire, had outgrown its previous space, it started eyeing Pear Tree Yard, a 1780s property located next to the scenic Springfield Mill and canal. In the last several years, this historic property had fallen into disrepair, but ACI, which does office fit-outs and refurbishments, caught a vision to renovate the building. Although the 18-month refurbishment uncovered numerous issues–including an Asbestos roof–all of the work has been worth it. “The difference in the building when we first set eyes on it to now is, in our opinion, incredible,” said ACI Director Roy Thompson. “We are constantly receiving positive comments from passers-by and visitors to the building.”

The exterior of the more than 200-year-old property. Image courtesy of ACI.
The exterior of the more than 200-year-old property. Image courtesy of ACI.

When was the project completed?  

2017

How much space?

1,100 square feet

Was this new or renovated space?

Renovated

How many square feet per person?

55 square feet

How many employees?

20

Describe work space types.

Both open plan and enclosed offices with open meeting spaces

Renovations uncovered a number of problems, including an Asbestos roof. Image courtesy of ACI.
Renovations uncovered a number of problems, including an Asbestos roof. Image courtesy of ACI.

What kind of meeting spaces are provided? 

Formal, open meeting spaces, as well as open, informal meeting spaces and breakout areas

What other kind of support space or amenity spaces are provided? 

External space on the side of the canal

Was the C-suite involved in the project planning and design process? If so, how?

Both owners of the company were heavily involved in the design process, from drawings right through to choosing finishes for the project.

Natural light spills into the office from restored windows. Image courtesy of ACI.
Natural light spills into the office from restored windows. Image courtesy of ACI.

What kind of programming or visioning activities were used?

Typical project management/works programming were used. We needed to ensure that all work was carried out in line with building regulations.

Were any pre-planning surveys conducted to get employee input?

Yes, employees were asked about the type of space they felt they would work best in and any special features that they would like. The desires were for an open space with dedicated meeting space. One of the quirky features that was requested was for a putting green to be implemented with the outdoor space by the canal.

Please describe any program requirements that were unique or required any special research or design requirements.

Unfortunately the roof of the mill was constructed with Asbestos, which meant that the whole roof had to be removed and replaced.

Was there any emphasis or requirements on programming for health and wellbeing initiatives for employees?

We wanted to open up the windows which had been bricked up to allow much more natural light into the space. We’ve found that natural light leads to more productivity and general happiness amongst the workforce.

Were there any special or unusual construction materials or techniques employed in the project?

There were several unusual requirements from a construction perspective. One of the main things we needed to focus on was installing barriers in case the canal were to overflow into the building.

What were the major furniture products used?

Bench seating, height-adjustable desks, meeting tables and breakout seating

What kind of branding elements were incorporated into the design?

Wall graphics, glass manifestation, external signage

What kind of technology products were used?

AV set-up in the meeting room, and Sonos throughout the building

Want to know more?

Project Team: 

Architect: Advanced Commercial Interiors Limited

  • Roy Thompson
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