Shortlisted in the RETROFIT category

The corner of Kensington High Street and Wright’s Lane was the former site of Pontings department store. Now known as The Kensington Building, the 1970s edifice has been transformed into a development that delivers 95,000ft2 of BREEAM Excellent and WELL Standard Gold workspace and 34,000ft2 of retail space. The people-centred design also incorporates 12,330ft2 of landscaped terraces, promoting bio-diversity and enhancing work-life wellbeing.

The original building was an aggressive, brutalist structure that eroded the historic definition of the surrounding streets. The architectural response restored the building’s visual alignment on Wright’s Lane with elevations sensitive to the traditions of the neighbourhood. The building is a demonstration of how retail can be reimagined. Flexible and sustainable architecture has transformed the redundant department store into relevant and adaptable accommodation.

Vote for this project in the ‘People’s Choice Award’. The voting deadline is 1 November 2022.