Mustard Cowork

Who doesn’t love a dramatic transformation? Kelsall Architects and Creative Bloc Developments created a contemporary, authentic co-working space out of a derelict, dilapidated space in the heart of Stockport.

“This seemingly modest project has had an impact that reaches far beyond its walls. It has been a catalyst for significant transformation and regeneration in the centre of Stockport and has set a standard for other developers to follow. Not only does it offer a model of a sensitive approach to the architectural renovation of existing buildings, but also realises the potential to create a place that is full of character.”

- Judges’ comments, RIBA North West Awards.

Keen as mustard

The pandemic changed the way we work; Flexibility is now the name of the game. People want to work locally to mitigate long commutes, but working from home doesn’t provide the connection we need. Turns out us humans are social creatures after-all. By providing fully equipped workspace for freelancers, remote workers and small businesses, Mustard has become a community of creative, keen as mustard individuals who enjoy sharing an office… and a coffee break.

Sustainable community

Sustainability isn’t just about how you build, it’s also about what you build. The brief and programme of your building is just as important on the overall climate impact of the development. Kelsall Architects and Creative Bloc Developments created the co-working programme to respond to needs of the redeveloping  local community. With rising fuel costs, co-working space also reduces the need for many individual homes to be heated during the day, saving both money and CO2.

“This is a joyful restoration of a derelict Grade II Stockport building into a co-working community space and shop. This project preserves and celebrates heritage on a budget, proving the value that care and imagination are the key to the revival of places.”

- Judge’s comments, Manchester Society of Architects Awards.

“This project is a wonderful example of how a heritage building can be transformed and repurposed for use today. Thanks to National Lottery players, we are delighted to have been able to support this work as part of Stockport’s Townscape Heritage Scheme that is putting heritage at the heart of the regeneration and future of the town.”

- Helen Featherstone, Director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

“As the first capital project within the ‘Rediscovering the Underbanks’ project, it was important that we set the bar high. Kelsall Architects achieved a fantastic finish internally and externally and were a pleasure to work with.”

- Peter Haymes, Stockport Townscape Heritage Manager.

Crafting contemporary interiors in a historic space

Working on a Listed Building brings its own challenges, but this is far outweighed by the gift of character and history it gives back. Our approach to the interior design is to expose, repair and celebrate the existing features and materials, while any new additions are starkly minimal and contemporary by contrast.

Design process

When working with existing buildings, we use our experience and site surveys to anticipate the scope of building works necessary. However, there are always queries that arise on site that require responses on the ground. We work quickly to provide detail solutions to keep the project on track and minimise the impact to cost.

Date:

2019 - 2021

Value:

undisclosed

Area:

115 sqm

Structural Engineer:

Elliot Bond Consulting

Heritage Consultant:

BB Heritage

Building Control:

Assent Building Control

End user:

Mustard Cowork

Funding partners:

National Lottery Heritage Fund