- Award-winning architecture studio Jo Cowen Architects has just completed work on the architecture and interiors of a new office space, the Assembly Rooms, in Putney, southwest London
- Developed by Thackeray Group, the recently completed project spans 24,515 sq. ft of full CAT A office space
- With features including a 2,000 sq. ft roof terrace providing scenic views across central London, the development has been designed with health and wellbeing at its core
Putney’s first commercial development to be completed in a decade has launched. Designed by award-winning Jo Cowen Architects, the Grade A office scheme aims to appeal to eco- and wellbeing-conscious occupiers thanks to its sustainable and wellness-focused design.
Developed by Thackeray Group, an investment, development and asset management business, The Assembly Rooms, offers 24,515 sq. ft of high quality workspace over four floors, and occupiers will benefit from access to a cutting-edge gym and panoramic roof terrace. BNP Paribas has been appointed as agents to market the scheme.
Situated on the junction of Werter Road and Putney High Street, the site has a rich history. First opening its doors in the 1870s, it was converted into a cinema in 1911 at the height of the silent film era, earning its Assembly Rooms moniker after changing operators two years later.
JCA conceived the Assembly Rooms with a focus on living well at work. Overlooking London’s skyline, the private gym and spacious roof terrace provide scenic views of the city while encouraging residents to strike a balance between work and play. This philosophy is underlined by the building’s ample nearby green spaces, including the tranquil river embankment and a number of picturesque parks located only a stone’s throw away. Occupiers can wind-down and enjoy post-work drinks in a purpose-built entertainment area that includes an outdoor big screen, or visit one of the many nearby amenities spanning bars and artisan cafés.
Sustainability is embedded within the Assembly Rooms’ design, with its green features including high performance thermal and ventilation systems, air and water purification, and e-charging points for electric vehicles. Motion sensors mean that lights can be automatically switched off when not in use, allowing tenants to save on energy. Fitted with some of the best-in-class interior and exterior design, the Assembly Rooms incorporate natural materials throughout, including stone finishes and living green walls.
JCA has also specially designed a sleek new logo for the Assembly Rooms, featured throughout the building in the form of eye-catching neon signs.
The site is well-connected to public transport, with excellent links to central London via the District Line and the river bus service, the Thames Clipper. The nearest station, Putney, is a two minutes’ walk away, equivalent to only 240 steps. Cycling to work is also encouraged by the presence of 30 bike spaces available on-site.
The Assembly Rooms are available to let either as the whole building for a headquarters or on a floor-by-floor basis, with floor space beginning at 3000 sq. ft.
Previous commercial developments by Thackeray Group include Fenchurch and Eastcheap in the City of London and Dimes Place in Hammersmith.
JCA has channelled considerable energy into building for sustainability and quality of life, both inside and out. JCA is also currently working on the masterplan for precision engineered homes that merge into liveable streets and spaces for Present Made, the UK’s first single-family rental platform.
Jo Cowen, CEO of Jo Cowen Architects, said: “In line with our wider commitment to sustainability here at Jo Cowen Architects, we’ve conceived the Assembly Rooms with an emphasis on reconciling the built environment with nature, which has the added benefit of promoting wellbeing at work. A highlight is definitely the spacious rooftop terrace, which we’ve fitted out with a colourful array of greenery, allowing tenants to unwind during the workday. Office space is much needed in Putney and the Assembly Rooms provide a welcome addition to what is a buzzing, rapidly up-and-coming area.”
Antony Alberti, chief executive and co-founder of Thackeray Group, said: “The Assembly Rooms delivers a working environment centred around wellness and sustainability, with meticulous detail given to the interior materials, integration of technology and energy efficiency. It provides truly unique Grade A office space to the South West London market, appealing to businesses and workforces seeking a local, neighbourhood workplace with health and well-being at its core.
“Post-pandemic we are seeing a flight to quality in offices as the workplace becomes somewhere people have to want to be rather than to need to be and schemes like The Assembly Rooms hope to tap into changing occupier tests by creating a sustainable, wellbeing-enhancing office environment.”
