Squire and Partners purchased a dilapidated Edwardian department store in Brixton, London and entirely reimagined the space allowing the existing fabric and layers of history to inform the design. Collaborating with craftspeople and furniture makers, the restored building provides an exciting array of spaces for the various design disciplines within the practice. At ground level a striking reception area and active modelshop animate the street, while a triple height void and central landscaped courtyard provide breathing space. Generous social and event spaces are at lower ground and the new fourth floor, with workspaces on first to third floors supported by a series of meeting and breakout areas. Original interior elements such as 111 year old mahogany and teak parquet flooring, a grand tiled staircase and a patina of colours documenting the building’s history were preserved. A series of voids cut through the building create dramatic volumes, and provide vistas. Workspaces reveal the many facets of design undertaken by the practice and celebrate the process of craft and making. Project areas are designed to showcase the process of design and development - models, prototypes and explorations document and celebrate a projects journey from concept to realisation. Bespoke elements are inspired by the existing pattern and architecture of the building, including light fittings, furniture and handmade rugs which were designed in collaboration with artists and craftspeople.