The Bindery

The Bindery is a revitalised 1930s office building in London’s Hatton Garden, built on the site of a book-binding workshop. Dorrington commissioned Piercy&Co for our expertise in transforming existing buildings. The strategy for the building prioritised occupier experience, seeking to engage with those using and visiting the building - providing calm, beautiful spaces that support wellness and are created in a highly sustainable way.

Inspired by the origins of the site and the neighbourhood’s rich history of making, the studio aimed to create highly-crafted interiors featuring bespoke furniture and finishings. Uncovering the building’s original Art Deco architectural features, the refurbishment retains brickwork, columns and terrazzo, informing the character of the upgrade.

High uncluttered ceilings and expansive windows are maximised for abundant light and views. Natural ventilation is provided by 14 openable windows on each floor, operated by a tailor-made winding mechanism. The sustainably sourced European Oak floors cleverly disguise an efficient underfloor data and power cabling system.

At ground floor, an art gallery space invites the wider community inside. The gallery hosts a programme of exhibitions curated by a London-based roving contemporary art gallery as well as community art and design related events. Piercy&Co designed bespoke seating within the space and sourced a mix of vintage and contemporary furniture and fittings, creating a timeless entrance.

Dorrington asked Piercy&Co to design a full fit-out (to Cat B) for one of the office floors. The resulting ‘plug and play’ design incorporated bespoke joinery by UK furniture maker Benchmark, with additional furniture by Muuto, &Tradition, Hay and others. The varied workspace caters to different work styles and needs. A central kitchen is accompanied by a long solid ash table, designed by Piercy&Co to reference the long trestle tables of binder’s workshops.

Five landscaped outdoor areas including three rooftop glasshouses provide occupants with access to over 500 herbs and scented plants to enhance the sensory experience. Additional bee, insect and bird boxes promote biodiversity in the area.

Designed into the retrofit is the latest in low-carbon technology. Electricity replaces gas, including ASHP water heating, photovoltaic panels and a 100% green-energy supply.

Following the building's completion, Piercy&Co were selected to design Faber and Faber's new headquarters in the building.