Material research enables Arney Fender Katsalidis to realise innovative procurement advantages

Multiplex has appointed architecture and interiors practice Arney Fender Katsalidis as Executive Architect at Derwent London’s 80 Charlotte Street and 65 Whitfield Street, one of the largest construction projects in Fitzrovia, Central London.

With Make having been appointed as Lead Architect, Arney Fender Katsalidis will develop the design and deliver the comprehensive reimagining of the site, while also including the sensitive retention of original façades. A range of materials, textures, details and proportions will be used to pay homage to the area’s eclectic character.

Earle Arney, Chief Executive of Arney Fender Katsalidis, said:

“80 Charlotte Street is a beautifully crafted series of buildings that carefully knit into the fabric of Fitzrovia – at a range of scales. At the detail level, materials such as hand-crafted brick, weathered corten steel and exposed concrete are intertwined and call upon the diverse textures of the neighbourhood. Macroscopically, existing structures are transformed and woven into a matrix of new buildings to create a cohesive creative-workplace edged with affordable and market residential units. Together with a newly created south facing pocket-park and improved public realm, a robust yet fine-grained live/work environment will be formed contributing to and enhancing the vibrancy of this fabulous London ‘quarter’.

“The new workplace is punctuated by three atria that deliver natural light deep into the building. Significant material research as the design is developed has enabled innovative procurement advantages to be realised resulting in an elevated efficiency and quality.”

Richard Baldwin, Head of Development, Derwent London said:

“We are pleased to have Arney Fender Katsalidis on the team who will bring additional detailed design expertise to this significant project. Construction is now under way and we look forward to working together to deliver this exciting development.”

Located in a conservation area, the 380,000 sq ft project is transforming a series of 1960s single use blocks into a contemporary and fully integrated mixed-used scheme of offices, private and affordable residential, retail and a public ‘pocket’ park.

The original building was home to advertising giants Saatchi and Saatchi for over 40 years. Now, engineering firm Arup will be taking 134,000 sq ft of office space. When complete, the scheme will be a major step forward in the wider regeneration of the area.

The project is due for completion in H2 2019.