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Project Objectives:
The Monument project involved the comprehensive refurbishment of a 1980s office building, transforming it into a modern, highly functional workspace in line with WeWork’s global standards. As an owner-occupier building, WeWork not only designed the space but also controlled the entire refurbishment process. The project’s key objectives included the creation of additional floor space within the original atrium, the conversion of basement parking into usable areas, and the design of a stunning roof terrace with views across Tower Bridge and The City.
The project entailed both Cat A and Cat B work, with a clear division of budget between the two. The focus was on delivering a high-quality refurbishment that modernised the building’s appearance and functionality, with regular monitoring of the Cat A fit-out to ensure that all design elements met WeWork’s global guidelines, with Shepherd Robson acting as Architects of Record. Additionally, the building’s external facade was updated with new windows and design modifications, giving it a more contemporary look. The roof and atrium work were central to the project, providing additional space and amenities for the building’s occupants.
Design Concept
The design concept revolved around transforming the dated 1980s office building into a vibrant, modern workspace that aligned with WeWork’s design ethos. The project retained the core structure of the building while enhancing its functionality and aesthetic appeal. A key aspect of the design was the extensive refurbishment of the internal and external spaces, creating open, airy environments that foster collaboration and interaction.
The atrium, a central feature of the original building, was partially infilled and topped with a new glazed roof, transforming it into an internal full-height space that maximise natural light. The roof was converted into a terrace, offering a rooftop garden and entertainment area that became a major asset for the building, providing a unique environment for work and leisure. Inside, the design incorporated a modern industrial aesthetic, with exposed structures and services giving the space a raw yet sophisticated feel.
The conversion of the basement car park into standalone spaces with its own entrance, as well as the expansion of the reception area, allowed for a more welcoming and efficient use of the building. The project embraced sustainable practices by reusing the existing structure where possible and incorporating energy-efficient systems and materials.
Challenges:
The Monument project presented several challenges. The building, originally constructed in the 1980s, required significant refurbishment to meet modern office standards. One of the primary challenges was ensuring that the design was fully aligned with WeWork’s global guidelines while adapting to the existing building’s structure. The atrium, a distinctive feature of the original design, had to be partially infilled and topped with a glazed roof, which required careful coordination between the design and construction teams.
Another challenge involved the conversion of the basement car park into functional spaces. This reconfiguration involved the removal of a car lift and the creation of a standalone space with its own entrance, which needed to be carefully planned to ensure accessibility and usability. Additionally, the building’s external windows were replaced, with modifications to the fenestration design to give the building a more modern appearance. This required close attention to detail to ensure that the new windows complemented the overall design while meeting performance standards for insulation and energy efficiency.
The roof terrace was a significant undertaking, with the construction of a unique rooftop garden and entertainment space that required a lift extension and the creation of a hospitality suite. Ensuring that the terrace offered stunning views across Tower Bridge and The City while maintaining safety and accessibility was a key challenge for the design and construction teams.
Budget
The Monument project required careful budget management, given the scale and complexity of the refurbishment. The project was divided into Cat A and Cat B works, with a clear split in the budget between these two categories.
- Cat A Work: The Cat A refurbishment involved the full fit-out of the building’s core elements, including structural enhancements, new windows, and the infilling of the atrium. This stage also included the reconfiguration of the basement car park and the installation of new systems such as HVAC and electrical services. Regular monitoring of the Cat A fit-out ensured that the work stayed on budget while meeting WeWork’s global standards.
- Cat B Work: The Cat B portion of the budget focused on the interior design and fit-out of the building’s spaces, including private offices, meeting rooms, and communal areas. The design included high-quality materials and finishes, as well as the construction of the roof terrace and hospitality suite. The budget also accounted for bespoke furniture and interior details that reflected WeWork’s brand while offering a modern and inviting workspace.
Balancing the budget across these two categories required careful coordination between the design, construction, and project management teams. Cost-efficiency was a key consideration throughout the project, with a focus on delivering high-quality results without exceeding the allocated budget.
