Work Space (ADS)

The project involved the fit out of an industrial unit for ADS a company providing a range of archaeological services to the construction and development sector. The existing structure is a portal frame, access is both from the front and rear and a mezzanine to the front results in a double height void at the rear of the building.

The brief required that an industrial feel be retained and that the use of natural daylight be maximized.  The design approach was to insert a series of objects into the building around which the plan evolved,

On the ground floor the reception and administrative areas are to the front. A laboratory is in the centre of the building flanked on both sides by utility elements containing vertical circulation piercing to the mezzanine, toilets, dark room and air abrasive room. Daylight is allowed to penetrate deep into the volume by retaining translucent roof lights. The preliminary processing and storage area is to the rear in the two-story void.

A shaft of light down the stairs indicates access to the mezzanine level. A plate is inserted to one side of the mezzanine under which is gathered formal functions, which are delineated by clear glass walls interrupted by timber door planes, creating a flexible open plan in the centre of the building.

Finishes are minimal; every detail being no more than is required.