Globe Works Factory.

Berrys were appointed as heritage consultants for the development of the Grade II listed Globe Works originally built for Thomas Bird and Sons in 1891. The building was to be sustainably conserved through conversion to apartments as part of an important legacy aspiration. Berrys worked closely with the client to ensure the desired outcome.

How We Approached The Project

In identifying all nearby heritage assets both designated and non-designated we were able to ascertain the overall impact of the proposal on the local townscape. The interesting history of the site, almost continuously housing shoe manufactures, provided a timeline which contextualised the reasons for its relatively unaltered original architectural and interior core.

We are industrial heritage enthusiasts (amongst other things!) so establishing the building phasing then visualising it chronologically was an interesting and rewarding exercise. In defining and detailing the significance of the building we were able to determine the significance between the later development stages and the original core. The original L-shaped footprint incorporating original features, such as large industrial windows and decorative stone and brickwork, were collectively considered to be of high significance. Later additions, of conflicting architectural styles to Gotch’s (the original architect) intended grandeur of the site, were considered harmful to the site’s significance. Sometimes the legibility of earlier phasing is obscure so undertaking a detective role to uncover the origins can be a very beneficial experience.

How We Achieved The Project

By establishing the focal points of significance, based on architectural and historic interest, the proposal was shaped to maximise the legibility of pertinent historic features whilst also maximising the utility of the later building alterations. Alongside the removal of later alterations and extensions, the new development required careful consideration in terms of scale, massing, design, details and materials. Berrys heritage team – working closely with the project architects – were instrumental in ensuring sensitive design driven by the focus on making legible the original architectural style envisaged by Gotch.