Clarke Associates’ impressive new office accommodation is a fully refurbished former Victorian school house, set in the midst of what used to be an agricultural community on the southern edges of Birmingham. The conversion process has been remarkable resulting in a modern, high quality building, which still retains a lot of its original character.
The mid-nineteenth century Victorian building is set in the picturesque area of Wythall and creates a pleasant working environment just one mile from the M42, and less than thirty minutes from the city centre.
The modern open space has been designed to encourage clear thinking, a core objective of Clarke Associates, reflecting the creative talents
of the team and business.
The historic building still includes several of its original features that date back to 1840 when the school was first built providing elementary education
for local children for a total of 126 years.
The arched Gothic windows are a major feature of the building having been restored and re-glazed. The original school bell and the old-fashioned fire alarm have been kept along with the school blackboard, still in the same position, above the traditional brick fireplace. Some of the floorboards – those that weren’t damaged by damp and rot – have been restored in keeping with the building.
High levels of insulation have been installed making the building a comfortable place in which to work.
The main hall has been developed removing the original partition to form a bright, open plan office. The ceilings were removed and raised to what was thought to be the original height, enabling a new mezzanine floor to be installed to create the main meeting room.
The office, whilst respecting its mid-nineteenth century Victorian origins, reflects the openness to fresh ideas with the company’s knowledge, experience and creativity expressed through the aid of up-to-date technology and the latest IT equipment in order to help deliver effective communications.
