Brewers' Hall

City of London, Greater London

The refurbishment, extension, and upgrade of Brewers’ Hall seamlessly combines architectural heritage with modern functionality. Located in Aldermanbury Square, the building has undergone a meticulous transformation that addresses both its historical significance and the operational needs of The Worshipful Company of Brewers. Originally constructed in 1960, the building was no longer suited to modern needs due to its outdated fabric, inefficient layout, and poor thermal and acoustic performance. The design team’s response was thoughtful and respectful of the building’s heritage. Over 70% of the original structure was retained, with significant upgrades to its façade, including the replacement of the copper roof with a contemporary pre-oxidised mansard structure, and the installation of high-performance Crittall windows. The lightweight three-storey extension added above the original building was engineered with timber and steel to reduce the load on the existing frame, allowing the building to grow without compromising its structural integrity. The incorporation of Portland stone and pre-oxidised copper, ensures that the building will stand the test of time while minimising environmental impact. These thoughtful additions are balanced with the preservation of the building's distinctive character, helping Brewers’ Hall remain a vital part of the City’s architectural heritage. The building’s energy performance has been drastically improved, with a significant upgrade to its thermal and acoustic qualities and is now connected to a district heating and cooling network, which has already reduced its carbon footprint by over 30% with heat pumps drawing natural warmth from an aquifer 200 meters below London. The original building lacked step-free access, so as part of the refurbishment, the ground-floor slab was lowered to create a seamless transition to the street level, improving the building’s accessibility. Additionally, a new lift has been installed to serve all floors, with careful consideration given to the integration of a discreet platform lift for the upper floors. Circulation routes throughout the building have been simplified, corridors have been widened and accessible WCs and bespoke signage provided, ensuring that the building is a welcoming space for everyone. Brewers’ Hall plays a significant role in the community as a hub for charitable activities. The Company administers several charitable foundations, including the Dame Alice Owen Foundation, which supports education for disadvantaged young people. The newly refurbished events space on the first floor serves as a venue for educational workshops and events, providing a valuable resource for the local community. The project has revitalised a building that once faced the threat of obsolescence, securing its future as a dynamic and sustainable asset for the City.