Features / generator
First look inside newly renovated historic generator building
Bristol’s Grade II listed generator building has been given a makeover.
Originally opened in 1899, the site next to St Philip’s bridge was once home to the generator that powered Bristol’s tram system.
Its original structure has now been given a new lease of life by architectural firm MoreySmith in collaboration with COO of the office provider Clockwise, Alex Brunner.
The result is a design-led office renovation that pays homage to the building’s unique history.
The space features a range of public spaces which have been created to ‘increase dwell time and interaction’ – photo: Fiona Smallshaw
The new space covers over 30,000 square feet of design-led spaces, spanning six floors, including dedicated offices, private desks, event spaces, a member’s lounge, and on-site café.
From industrial and boutique features such as corrugated metal and mosaic floors, to a bar featuring bespoke overhead light installation formed of prismatic acrylic, supposedly inspired by the flow of electricity, no detail has gone amiss.
Many of the design features have restored the building’s original historic details, such as stamps on the original red brickwork, previously labelling the usage of each machine from the original tram generator and two period trusses. The original architecture also remains visible on every floor.
A raw metal spiral staircase mixes the ‘industrial’ with the ’boutique’ – photo: Fiona Smallshaw
The local community has even been taken into consideration in the design, with artwork from local artists, and interior design which reflects the building’s industrial past and waterside setting with nautical details such as reclaimed rope lighting installations.
Speaking about the project, the founder and principal director of MoreySmith, Linda Morey-Burrows said: “We have loved working with Clockwise and Castleforge Partners to breathe new life into this beautiful heritage building.
“We hope that the space will be enjoyed by the local community.”
Clockwise Bristol is the second Grade II listed building redeveloped by the London-based firm, following the opening of Edward Pavilion in Liverpool’s Albert Dock, previously a UNESCO heritage site.
The office ‘pays homage’ to its waterside setting with nautical details including reclaimed rope lighting installations – photo: Fiona Smallshaw
The space features bright and airy double height spaces with an industrial interior – photo: Fiona Smallshaw
The original brickwork has been left exposed – photo: Fiona Smallshaw
Main photo: Fiona Smallshaw
Read more: Major refurbishment and expansion plans for Temple Quarter building
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