Workspace and commercial architecture in Greenwich: breathing new life into old buildings
Greenwich's commercial and creative sector has grown significantly over the last decade, the borough is now home to approximately 6,000 creative and digital jobs . The creative industries cluster around Deptford and New Cross, the growing residential population across the borough and the investment in transport links have together created real demand for good quality, flexible, characterful workspace.
Much of the most interesting opportunity lies not in new buildings but in old ones. Greenwich has a significant stock of Victorian and Edwardian commercial buildings, former industrial premises and underused retail units that have genuine character and enormous potential. The question is not whether to build new workspace, but how to make the most of what is already there.
Greenwich's growing commercial and creative sector
The creative industries have been a significant force in Greenwich's economy for some time, clustered particularly around Deptford and the areas bordering Lewisham and Southwark. The growth of Lewisham and the wider regeneration of the east Greenwich waterfront have brought new residents and new demand for good workspace close to where people live.
The market for mid-range office and studio space in Greenwich reflects a broader London trend: generic, undifferentiated space is hard to let, while workspace that has genuine identity, flexible formats and genuine sustainability credentials attracts tenants who want to be there and who stay.
Sustainable fit-out in Greenwich
New Makers Bureau's approach to commercial fit-out starts with the existing building. What is genuinely good about it? What can be retained, celebrated and made the foundation of the new design? What needs to be removed and what can be reused rather than replaced?
For a typical Greenwich commercial retrofit, that might mean retaining and exposing original brick or timber structure, reusing existing joinery or fit-out elements, specifying reclaimed or FSC-certified timber for new elements, and using low-toxicity, zero-VOC finishes throughout. The result is a workspace that feels genuine rather than manufactured, and that carries far less embodied carbon than a full strip-out and refurbishment.
Planning for change of use in Greenwich
Converting a former shop, warehouse or industrial building to workspace use in Greenwich typically involves a change of use application. The planning process for these conversions is generally straightforward when the proposed use is compatible with the building's character and the surrounding area.
Heritage assets, including listed buildings and buildings in conservation areas, require more careful handling. New Makers Bureau has experience preparing change of use applications for heritage buildings in Greenwich and understands the level of detail and argument that the planning authority expects.
How to Transform Old Offices into Thriving Workspaces
