Bradbury Works

Hackney, Greater London

Civic Trust Awards Citation

Bradbury Works has recently reopened and serves as a crucial addition to the evolving story of Gillett Square, a unique and community-focused public space in the heart of Dalston. 

The project, driven by a longstanding commitment from Hackney Borough Council, contributes to the placemaking efforts in Gillett Square, creating a hub of almost 1500sqm of new and refurbished workspaces. The new building includes the refurbishment of 600m2 of existing affordable workspace, the replacement of ten mini retail units, and the provision of almost 500m2 of extra workspace in a two-storey extension. The architectural approach takes inspiration from the domestic scale of Victorian townhouses, using a glimmering mill-finished aluminium and polycarbonate carapace to create a building that complements the civic nature of the surrounding area, including the Dalston Playhouse. The ground floor of Bradbury Works is designed to form an active frontage onto Gillett Square, contributing to the vitality of the community. 

The upper floors feature deck spaces that serve as communal areas for tenants, providing a place for interaction while maintaining a strong connection to Gillett Square. These open and public spaces are essential in fostering a sense of community within the building. The architectural honesty and openness are reflected in the material palette, with undecorated self-finished materials creating a straightforward yet appealing aesthetic. The use of colour unifies elements like the refurbished staircase, adding a delightful touch to the building’s interior. The overall design approach emphasises simplicity and functionality, aligning with the needs and preferences of the community. In terms of community impact, the project prioritises the well-being of its tenants. The careful phasing of the development ensured that existing tenants could maintain their businesses during the redevelopment, contributing to a high degree of retention. 

The building has attracted a diverse mix of businesses, fostering a balance between creating a distinctive place and offering a blank canvas for businesses to grow and thrive. The success stories, such as NTS Radio’s involvement, highlight the positive impact on the local community and the importance of consulting with and listening to existing stakeholders. Sustainability is a key focus, starting with the adaptation and reuse of existing buildings on the site. The new build elements have been designed to meet high standards of energy performance, exceeding government standards with an overall energy rating of EPC C. The commitment to accessibility is evident in the addition of ramps, accessible toilets at each level, and an extended lift to ensure an inclusive environment for all. 

Bradbury Works not only represents a well-designed and sustainable workspace but is a beacon of community engagement and inclusion.

Judges’ Comments: “The project successfully marries architectural excellence with a deep understanding of the community’s needs, making it a standout example of how thoughtful design can contribute to the social and cultural fabric of a neighbourhood.”