In the heart of Southwark, Central London, a historic gem has been reborn. Henry Wood House, a 1930s Art Deco landmark originally built by the Peabody Trust as social housing, now stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. Through a visionary collaboration between flexible workspace provider Fora and award-winning design studio Nice Projects, this architectural marvel has been transformed into a premium hybrid workspace that honors its past while embracing the future. Blending heritage preservation with biophilic design, terrazzo floors with rooftop terraces, and communal lounges with cutting-edge technology, Henry House is more than a building—it’s a blueprint for urban regeneration. Let’s explore how this project redefines London’s architectural and professional landscapes.
Reviving a London Landmark: Henry Wood House’s Transformation
Once a symbol of community-driven housing, This House faced decades of neglect before Fora and Nice Projects intervened. The restoration wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was a mission to revive Sir Henry Wood’s legacy (the building’s namesake and founder of the BBC Proms) while creating a space for modern collaboration.
The team meticulously preserved original Art Deco features, such as arched windows and geometric motifs, while injecting contemporary minimalist design. Today, the building buzzes with energy, housing startups, creatives, and enterprises—a testament to adaptive reuse.
Art Deco Meets Modern Workspace Design
The 1930s Art Deco spirit shines through restored arched windows, terrazzo flooring, and intricate timber joinery. These elements coexist with sleek, muted color palettes and open-plan layouts that define today’s hybrid work environments.
Nice Projects masterfully balanced geometric patterns with clean lines, ensuring every corner feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Rooftop terraces offer skyline views, while communal lounges foster serendipitous connections—proving history and innovation can thrive together.
Collaboration Between Fora & Nice Projects
Fora’s expertise in flexible workspaces and Nice Projects’ design ingenuity created magic. Their shared vision? To honor the building’s heritage while crafting a hub for productivity and creativity.
From selecting sustainable materials to integrating biophilic principles, the partnership prioritized authenticity and user experience. The result? A workspace that’s as functional as it is inspiring, setting a new standard for commercial interiors.
Preserving Heritage While Embracing Innovation
Original fireplaces, staircases, and façade details were meticulously restored, celebrating the Peabody Trust’s social housing legacy. Meanwhile, smart climate systems and acoustic panels ensure modern comfort.
This duality extends to the building’s purpose: once a haven for families, it now empowers professionals. Sir Henry Wood’s dedication to accessibility lives on through affordable membership tiers and community events.
Sustainable Materials in Adaptive Reuse
The project prioritized eco-conscious choices. Reclaimed timber, low-VOC paints, and energy-efficient lighting reduce its carbon footprint. Terrazzo flooring—a blend of recycled marble and glass—adds timeless elegance sustainably. Such practices align with global sustainability benchmarks, proving that historic buildings can lead the green revolution.
Biophilic Elements for Enhanced Productivity
Natural light floods through restored windows, while indoor plants and living walls purify the air. These biophilic design principles boost focus and well-being, backed by studies linking nature exposure to productivity. Communal areas feature organic textures like wood and stone, creating calm amidst urban chaos—a workspace that feels alive.
The Role of Light and Space in Commercial Interiors
Floor-to-ceiling windows amplify natural light, reducing reliance on artificial sources. Open layouts with modular furniture adapt to needs, from solo work to team brainstorming.
Strategic zoning ensures quiet corners and collaborative hubs coexist, embodying Fora’s “work your way” philosophy.
From Social Housing to Premium Workspace
The Peabody Trust’s 1930s vision of community lives on. Henry Wood House now fosters professional networks, with Peabody residents invited to workshops and mentorship programs.
This evolution reflects London’s shifting urban needs, transforming brick-and-mortar heritage into dynamic, inclusive ecosystems.
Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality
Every design choice serves dual purposes. Geometric motifs echo Art Deco heritage while subtly guiding foot traffic. Muted palettes soothe the mind without dulling creativity. Even the rooftop terraces double as event spaces, proving beauty and practicality aren’t mutually exclusive.
Applying These Principles to Home and Office Spaces
While Henry Wood House is a large-scale example, the design principles applied here can inspire home offices and smaller workspaces. Key takeaways for a home workspace include:
- Maximizing natural light with well-placed windows or bright, open layouts.
- Integrating biophilic design through indoor plants and natural materials.
- Choosing sustainable materials like reclaimed wood or energy-efficient lighting.
- Blending heritage with modern aesthetics to create a timeless yet functional workspace.
Henry House is a Blueprint for Urban Regeneration
This project isn’t just a success—it’s a model. Cities worldwide can learn from its blend of preservation, sustainability, and community focus. By transforming underused landmarks into vibrant hubs, we combat urban sprawl and carbon waste. Henry Wood House shows the future of cities lies in their past.
FAQs
Who was Sir Henry Wood?
A: A renowned conductor and BBC Proms founder, honored through this building’s name and cultural events hosted here.
What makes the refurbishment sustainable?
A: Recycled materials, energy-efficient systems, and biophilic design align with LEADER and BREEAM standards.
Can the public access Henry Wood House?
A: While primarily a workspace, tours, and community events are offered—contact Fora for details.
How does it support hybrid work models?
A: Flexible desks, tech-equipped meeting rooms, and lounges cater to remote and in-office workers.
