The Waterman

The Waterman is one of Clerkenwell’s largest heritage retrofit projects – an ambitious re-imagining of four Victorian industrial warehouses over 70,000 sq ft within the Clerkenwell Green Conservation Area. In partnership with BGO and Fathom Architects, we secured the heritage buildings’ future by combining the four separate buildings to create a single workspace with distinct character and an improved carbon footprint.

Project in Brief:

• Unified four separate buildings, creating open and flexible workspaces.
• Reused 5,000 bricks and 3 tonnes of glass, transforming windows into terrazzo-style worktops and bespoke signage.
• Introduced coworking spaces, private terraces, End of journey facilities and cycle storage.

Shaping a Sustainable Future

This project proves that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand, with reused materials taking centre stage. Terrazzo-style worktops were crafted from the building’s original glass windows, while 185 sqm of timber flooring was reclaimed from the demolition of the new lift shafts and carefully restored for the ground-floor reception. This approach saved over 250 tonnes of CO2 through raised flooring reuse alone, aligning with stringent Whole Life Carbon targets.

A naturally ventilated system eliminates the need for mechanical cooling, with PIR-enabled smart lighting systems further minimising energy use. These initiatives, paired with energy-efficient materials, aim to secure BREEAM and WELL certifications, reinforcing The Waterman’s role as a benchmark for sustainable urban regeneration.

Alfred’s Club – A Contemporary Welcome

The reception area, Alfred’s Club, combines Victorian charm with a modern twist. Salvaged materials, such as reclaimed floorboards, pair with warm tones and exposed brick to create a welcoming, members-club feel. Bespoke features like locally sourced lighting and green accents reflect Clerkenwell’s rich design history while setting a new standard for communal spaces.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, The Waterman exemplifies how workplaces can support the transition to net zero. With its smart design choices and focus on reuse, the project demonstrates how historic buildings can be adapted to deliver exceptional environmental performance. As a result, The Waterman is a tribute to London’s past and a symbol of its sustainable future.

Find out more about The Waterman here.