The architectural firm Fletcher Priest and contractor Midgard have completed the modernization and extension of the building at 150 Aldersgate in the City of London, preserving a significant portion of the original structure.
The project was carried out for clients Topland Group and Beltane Asset Management, and was pre-let to social media giant TikTok. The project manager was Opera, and the structural engineer was AKT II.
According to the design team, approximately 81% of the original structure was preserved as part of an overarching construction strategy aimed at reducing carbon emissions. The modernization included the addition of new office floors at roof level with stepped terraces, expanding the building’s area to 140,000 sq. ft.
Inside, the building features a new entrance hall on the ground floor, which serves as an internal street connecting Aldersgate Street to Bartholomew Square and providing access to the Elizabeth line at Farringdon.
The new facade features 77 hand-made concrete ribs with a woven pattern. The architects describe it as a reimagining of the historical use of the site as a textile factory, with the ribs serving a solar shading function.
Joe Sweeney, partner at Fletcher Priest Architects, commented: “The tenant experience was at the forefront of the design process for 150 Aldersgate. From biophilic terraces on every level to the sunlit internal street, this building is designed to bring joy to those who work here.”
The rear facade uses a combination of three types of brick to reflect the architectural character of neighboring warehouse buildings.
The internal cores were reconfigured, and the basement car park was repurposed as office space. The project holds a BREEAM Excellent rating and EPC A. Amenities for users include 250 bike spaces and shower facilities with access from the Braithwood Walk.
According to the design team, the net biodiversity gain across the site was 80%.
The Braithwood Passage, connecting Aldersgate and Cloth Streets, was also revamped as part of the development. The narrow alley, which became a popular pedestrian route after the opening of the Elizabeth line, was widened and refurbished.
It now features a permanent tile artwork by artist Alexis Teplin, created in collaboration with ceramicists Darwen Terracotta and Faience.