Argyll – 1 Cornhill

Retrofit Project of the Year 2024, Revitalising a Historic Landmark

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Brief

Argyll, a premium serviced office provider, engaged Aura Consulting to manage the transformation of Cornhill, a Grade II listed building in the heart of London’s financial district.

The goal was to enhance the building’s interiors while improving its environmental performance, aligning with Argyll’s sustainability objectives.

The project was initially scoped as a CAT B refurbishment but evolved to include a full mechanical upgrade to future-proof the space.

All works were completed while the building remained in occupation, requiring a carefully phased approach to minimise disruption.

Challenges

M&E Systems.
Initially excluded, M&E upgrades were later deemed essential and had to be completed out of hours to avoid disrupting occupants.

Heritage Considerations.
The Grade II listing required sensitive restoration work, with a careful balance of preserving historical features while integrating modern office elements.

Building Occupancy.
The building was fully occupied throughout the project, so meticulous planning was necessary to minimise disruption to tenants.

Coordination Complexity.
The complexity of coordinating trades, contractors, and heritage considerations required precise project management to ensure a smooth delivery.

Highlights

Historical Preservation.
The project retained and enhanced the building’s Grade II listed status, preserving key architectural features such as ornate woodwork, period staircases, and historical lifts.

Sustainability.
The retrofit achieved an EPC rating upgrade from E to B, contributing to sustainability goals.

Innovative Design.
The design integrated bespoke joinery and modern systems, blending heritage aesthetics with contemporary office requirements.

Building Amenities.
New amenities included cycle storage, showers, and kitchen facilities, enhancing the tenant experience and making the building more attractive to modern occupiers.

Let’s Talk About Your Project

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