Cargo, 25 North Colonade, UK
Retrofitting for future-proofing opportunities
Constructed in the early 1990s, 25 North Colonnade had been let to a single occupier since completion. Together with client Revantage and architect Gensler, Arup brought the building up to the latest performance standards, with appeal for diverse occupiers. This extended the lifespan of the structure for decades to come.
Connectivity was a key driver, with the building less than one minute’s walk to the new Crossrail Place station. Arup engineered interventions to dramatically open up and expand the ground floor and dock levels, transforming the arrival experience. This included remodelling entrances to the north and south, and creating the new Market Hall, which supports multiple uses, from co-working to events. Set across two levels, this publicly accessible space draws footfall from the station and offers seating for up to 200 diners. Large glass panels and bifold doors bring a more fluid transition into the building. The steel façade provides a material connection to the industrial history of its dockland setting.
