The Manufactory (Heal's Building)
CLIENT
LOCATION
PROJECT TYPE
AREA
COMPLETION DATE
General Projects
Mayfair, London, W1
CAT A & CAT B
18,000 sqft
September 2024
Benchmark workspace in Clerkenwell
General Projects appointed Whitepaper to create a market-leading office asset in the heart of Clerkenwell. The transformation of two historic structures into approximately 74,000 sq ft of high-quality office space across six storeys demonstrates a strategic fusion of adaptive reuse, sustainability and contemporary workplace design to support premium rents and strong leasing performance.
Anchored in one of London’s most desirable business districts, Technique reimagines a former gin distillery and adjacent warehouse through a sensitive, design-driven conversion that celebrates existing character while delivering modern office functionality. Rather than opting for demolition, the project retained circa 69% of the original building fabric—significantly reducing embodied carbon and construction waste—and incorporated an innovative timber extension using cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam columns to add substantial new floor area.
This thoughtful approach to sustainability was a commercial priority: the retention and reuse of the existing structure prevented over 2,500 tonnes of waste from landfill and helped avoid more than 1,700 tonnes of CO₂ compared with conventional rebuild alternatives, reflecting General Projects’ commitment to responsible development without compromising quality.
Internally, Technique offers generous, light-filled floorplates, high ceilings and a flexible workspace layout that supports diverse occupier needs. A distinctive new entrance and lobby reinforce the building’s identity, while durable, exposed materials and biophilic design cues create a characterful yet functional working environment.
Completed in 2022, the Technique Building now stands as a compelling example of how adaptive reuse and thoughtful design can unlock latent value in existing assets, minimising void risk, enhancing tenant appeal, and positioning the building to achieve competitive rents in a tightening office market.