Civic Chambers

Working with an existing building form

The design brief assumes a three-storey office building with a regular facade grid. The concept explores retaining that rhythm while introducing a more residential character through generous windows, warmer infill materials and a clearly expressed shared entrance.

A light-touch elevation study

Pencil linework and muted washes distinguish the principal frame, infill panels and recessed upper-level screens. The drawing tests a visual direction for adaptation before an apartment mix or internal arrangement is fixed. Recessed outdoor space is an option to investigate alongside the structure, internal depth and envelope design.

Testing the conversion opportunity

A measured building survey and assessment of the structure, floor depths and existing openings would inform the next stage. Residential layouts would then be coordinated with daylight, privacy, access, fire safety, acoustic separation and environmental performance. These studies would establish what accommodation the building could reasonably support.

Establishing the planning route

Class E to C3 is the assumed change of use for the concept. It does not establish Class MA eligibility or prior approval. A real proposal would require the building's lawful use, history, location and proposed external alterations to be reviewed before the planning route is selected.

Concept status

Civic Chambers is a self-initiated early design study by Hepburn Architects. It is not a commissioned conversion, a submitted application or an approved scheme.