Near Wimbledon station, the Grade II listed Fire Station, designed by Charles Hanlet Cooper in 1904, stands as a testament to the area’s rich architectural legacy

The Wimbledon Fire Station project brings a disused Grade II listed building back into civic life, combining conservation with purposeful modern reuse. Located near Wimbledon Station, the retrofit prioritises heritage sensitivity, low- carbon design, and a hospitality-led approach to workspace.

Previously absorbed by a shopping mall and stripped of its identity, the building now features a reinstated entrance on Queen’s Road, re- establishing its connection with the street and community. The ground floor café welcomes the public, while upper floors provide flexible coworking spaces that blend original architectural features with new interventions. Throughout, materials were chosen for longevity and character—most notably the consistent use of oak timber for partitions, desks, and furniture, offsetting the robust brick and concrete fabric.

The retrofit strategy avoided demolition and maximised reuse. Original tiles, brick, timber shopfronts, and handrails were restored and adapted. A rooftop farm and beehives enrich biodiversity, while coffee grounds from the café are recycled to grow mushrooms, showcasing a circular economy approach. Operable sash windows and daylight-optimised layouts reduce energy demand, supported by a fully renewable energy supply and PIR-controlled lighting.

More than a workspace, the Fire Station is now a destination that brings together work, community, and ecology. Its mixed-use model responds to changing urban rhythms, offering public and private functionality within a single, adaptable structure.

This project shows how London’s historic buildings can support future generations— blending climate-conscious design with inclusive public access and cultural continuity. It represents a template for reactivating heritage spaces as meaningful places for contemporary life.