The Department Store Studios

Squire & Partners have developed The Department Store Studios, a four-storey contemporary workspace building adjacent to their award-winning refurbishment of The Department Store as the next phase of the practice’s investment in Brixton. Providing 13,000 sq ft of workspace and 4,500 sq ft of retail, the new development creates a platform for growing businesses with flexible workspaces – from individual desks to private studios – and a host of serviced social and meeting areas. The Studios is also home to a neighbourhood bar, restaurant and screening room.
The crafted red brick building replaces a series of derelict annex structures from the 1970s, taking inspiration from the robust Edwardian aesthetic of The Department Store with patterned brickwork and contemporary faceted bay windows. A setback fourth floor creates generous external terraces, and is planted with a green roof to enhance biodiversity.
Internally, designs are centred on sustainability and celebrating the honesty of raw materials. Establishing a stripped back aesthetic, the cross laminated timber frame and brick finishes are exposed throughout, offset by polished plaster and smooth grey screed floors. Exposed services feature throughout, encased in suspended metal trays.
Created as a natural addition to The Department Store, The Studios is a highly sustainable development that supports local businesses by offering a Residency scheme for young entrepreneurs and a programme of events curated to share skills, inspire creativity and expand local networks.