Metal Box Factory

In 2010 Pringle Richards Sharratt were selected through an invited competition to refurbish, extend and regenerate an existing group of three interconnected buildings in Southwark, London - collectively known as the Metal Box Factory. This project brought together three former industrial and warehouse buildings, created a new entrance sequence, four storey high atrium and added a further two storeys of office accommodation, achieving a BREEAM Very Good rating.

The introduction of a two storey concrete arch on great Guildford Street signals the entrance which leads visitors via a gently inclined stone walkway through a ribbon of wild grass planting to the new animated reception and covered atrium, which hosts a café, break out spaces and feature circulation stair.  On top of the larger 1950’s former printing works building a two storey steel framed extension provides around 2,800sq.m of additional office space, served by new passenger lifts installed within the old goods lift shafts passing through the atrium’s ETFE roof. A smaller open courtyard and separate terrace next to the retained chimney are provided.

Works commenced in 2012, and upon completion in 2015 the project was shortlisted for the AJ Retrofit Awards.