Architects ColladoCollins have secured planning consent for a striking redevelopment of the Grade II listed former Ford Motor Company garage and showroom at 184 Shepherd’s Bush Road, Hammersmith, London W6.
Acting on behalf of the building’s owners, Access Self Storage Ltd, ColladoCollins’ designs comprise over 115,000 ft² (approx. 10,683 m²) of office space across six floors, including the adding of three new floors to the existing three-story building. These new floors will be housed in an innovative glass dome covering the entire roof space of the existing building.
The designs propose the creation of unique, high quality office space that incorporates contemporary design elements creating continuity with the original structure. The designs also propose the creation of a conservatory at the back of the building as a breakout space for the prospective tenants as well as internal and external works including the ground floor reception area and the removal of the existing signage.
Roy Collado, Partner of ColladoCollins, said: "This is an exciting re-imagining of an important local landmark. The designs sympathetically maintain the industrial heritage of the building and the surrounding area, whilst proposing a sleek and contemporary aesthetic that will maximize the lettable floor space and appeal to a range of potential occupiers. The use of innovative techniques to inform and influence the design is something that we believe could really enhance the site."
The building is an early and rare surviving example of a purpose-built motor depot and garage, with showroom dating from the early period of motor architecture in England. It was originally built in 1915-16 by Charles Heathcote and Sons of Manchester for the Ford Motor Company, based on contemporary American designs. The building demonstrates a pioneering engineering solution to structural framework for the time.
The reinforced concrete frame and modular plan of the original building has been fundamental in informing the approach to the scheme design. The objective is to complement and enhance the integrity of the existing structure whilst minimizing any impact of its modernization. The proposed extension will work with the existing structure of the building (rather than require the addition of a new subframe) and at the same time respond sensitively to the site context and neighboring heritage assets.
Located less than 100 meters from the center of Hammersmith, No. 184 Shepherd’s Bush Road is located opposite Brook Green, itself part of a local conservation area. ColladoCollins’ designs are sympathetic to surrounding buildings, including its neighbors the Osram Building and the Brook Green Hotel.
Source: FTI Consulting
