HBA Completes Historic Grade II Listed Office Refurbishment on Southampton Row, Holborn’s Sicilian Avenue
Hale Brown Architects has completed Phase 1 of a comprehensive refurbishment project transforming the two Grade II Listed mixed-use office building, which flanks the historic Sicilian Avenue on the Holborn Links Estate, London.
Preserving Heritage, Creating Modern Workspace
The buildings feature ornate stone facades and intricately detailed wooden shopfronts that embody the architectural character of London’s first purpose-built pedestrian street. While these grand Victorian exteriors showcase exceptional period craftsmanship, the interiors required significant modernisation to meet contemporary workplace standards.
Grade A Office Transformation
The Phase 1 refurbishment encompasses three merged buildings, delivering nearly 50,000 square feet of premium Grade A office space. HBA’s design strategy revitalises the interiors while respecting the buildings’ listed status, creating a modern workplace environment that honours the site’s historic significance.
Amenities and Wellbeing-Focused Design
The project introduces a new ‘clubhouse’ facility serving the entire Holborn Links Estate, featuring:
- End-of-trip facilities for cyclists and active commuters
- Flexible wellbeing spaces accessible to all estate tenants
- Remodelled circulation cores with integrated MEP systems optimised for energy efficiency
- An enlarged, reconfigured reception area functioning as a multi-purpose events and presentation space
- Diverse touchdown areas and informal meeting zones foster collaboration
The refurbishment seamlessly integrates modern mechanical, electrical, and plumbing infrastructure within the complex historic structure, maximising operational efficiency while preserving architectural integrity.
Project Details:
- Location: Sicilian Avenue, Holborn Links Estate, London
- Size: 50,000 sq ft (Phase 1)
- Architect: HBA
- Building Status: Grade II Listed
- Use: Mixed-use office with retail
All the doors at Southampton Row were supplied by Forza Doors and have ironmongery supplied by 3V architectural ironmongery. This image shows the insulation strip in the centre of a fire door which will provide additional protection in the event of fire.
