Project Overview
- Project: Gilkes
- Client: Gilbert Gilkes & Gordon Ltd
- Construction Value: £4.75m
- Status: Complete
- Location: Kendal
An imaginative blend of new and old to create an inspiring workplace.
Gilbert and Gordon (Gilkes) have a long and proud history of producing water pumps and turbines in Kendal since 1881. Over time, the historic factory was extended many times to suit the needs of a successful and expanding global business.
We were invited to design an inspiring new workspace to provide modern facilities and to reflect the progressive and innovative character of ‘Gilkes’, whilst also showcasing the history of the business, and the heritage of the original building.
Our design involved substantial alterations to the existing Victorian buildings, along with a new extension to create an integrated, flexible and inspiring office headquarters for Gilkes and its staff. The designs also included enhanced R&D facilities, a new board room, a new arrival point and shared social spaces.
The building was carefully designed to reveal and celebrate historic depths of the buildings, whilst simultaneously adding a new, contemporary layer.