29 May 2020
*** Winner! ***
Exhibition London has been transformed and now delivers 3000 sqm of usable event space spanning 2 floors, with double-height ceilings bringing the old and new together. The Dimco Buildings (East and West) are Victorian structures, first built in 1899, representing the earliest example of an electricity generating station built for the London Underground railway system. They were designed as the engine and boiler houses of the Wood Lane generating station and were Grade 2 listed in 1988, with tiled interior walls and red brick. When no longer required for the railway, the buildings were named for the Dimco Company which opened a machine shop there. The venue has provided a welcome addition to the local arts scene in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. It also represents another development in the wider £8 billion regeneration of White City.
Unibail Rodamco Westfield and venue specialists Broadwick Live converted Dimco East into public use for the first time. To enable the building to operate successfully with no disruption to the local residents, an acoustically and thermally sealed box was created without affecting the structure, fabric or external appearance of the building. As the Building is statutorily listed, any physical works to the structure internally or externally were approved by a listed building consent application, along with planning permission for the change in use of the building
Early engagement with the Client was essential to develop operational and aesthetic needs and aspirations whilst being sympathetic to the existing building fabric and structure. Close collaboration was undertaken with the Borough, planning and historic buildings department, and the local community from the inception to completion of the project.
Achievements:
Cllr Stephen Cowan, Leader of the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham, said: “Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield and Broadwick Venues have worked carefully to restore and repurpose this 120-year-old building to deliver this exciting new entertainment destination. Throughout, they have been committed to respecting its past and investing in its future, so fantastic, contemporary experiences can be offered against a stunning Victorian backdrop. It is another fantastic asset for the borough and we are delighted that the Hammersmith & Fulham Historic Buildings Group has awarded the Blue Plaque commemorating the building’s history.”
Highlights:
About the Conservation & Regeneration Award:
The conservation or rehabilitation of old or historic buildings and sites is often an important part of neighbourhood revitalisation, providing physical and psychological focus for the community and creating jobs and investment opportunities. Construction work that involves the conservation and regeneration of historic buildings requires great care and specialist skills and techniques.
The Importance of SMEs in Construction
17 January 2024
Enabling SMEs to succeed
Read More
The Crucial Role of Logistics in Construction Projects – how good are yours?
07 December 2023
How good are your construction logistics now?
Read More
The Benefits of Collaborative Working
20 November 2023
Construction Thought Leaders Discuss Challenges in the Sector
Read More