The Mailbox
A conversion of a 40-metre-long retail arcade into a progressive workspace, demonstrating the re-use potential of vacant shopping centres in towns and cities.
Location
Birmingham, UK
Client
Spaces & M7 Real Estate
Photography
Jim Stephenson & Alex Sutton
Size
44,000 sqft
Awards & Recognition
Finalist - BCO Regional Award - Workplace Fitout
Following a decline in retail activity, M7 Real Estate decided to repurpose the entrance level retail space to align with the increasing demand for flexible offices and co-working centres. This transformation caters to evolving work patterns and preferences, by providing a versatile environment that supports community, collaboration and productivity.
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The Mailbox
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Before - Retail Arcade
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Under Construction
The emphasis on preserving the retail arcade from the 2015 refurbishment not only respects the history of the space but also aligns with sustainable design principles. By retaining key finishes and technical services, the project sought to minimise waste and reduce the carbon footprint associated with new construction. This strategy leverages the existing spatial layout, enhancing a sense of place and identity within the new co-working space. The unique character derived from these choices fosters an inviting environment while promoting a commitment to environmental responsibility.
The design approach focused on transforming the 40-metre-long retail arcade into a multifunctional communal business club. This was achieved by strategically sectioning the space into three distinct areas using free-standing joinery elements.
The first area serves as an entrance café and reception, welcoming visitors in a lively, publicly accessible atmosphere. The central zone is designed for a quieter co-working environment, suitable for both focused work and hosting events. The third area is a winter garden, which offers a serene connection to the retail space and skylight situated above.
Additionally, the previous shop openings have been repurposed into meeting rooms that connect directly to the business club. These rooms feature glass partitions, allowing natural light to flow through and provide visual connections to the new office areas beyond, fostering an open and collaborative environment.
The integration of retained finishes alongside a warm palette of new materials creates a cohesive and inviting atmosphere throughout the space. Each meeting room, marked by its distinct coloured accent walls and soft curtains, introduces an element of playfulness while ensuring privacy and comfort. This thoughtful design enhances the original character of the retained stone surrounds, echoing the heritage of the former shop fronts. The furniture, strategically arranged within the three distinct zones of the business club, caters to various work and collaboration needs, fostering an inclusive environment for the diverse community that utilises the space.
The office realm features IWG’s flexible ‘Open Desk’ offering. This is combined with smaller break out zones and shared amenities, aligned with windows to bring daylight deep into the floorplate.
“It is an incredibly welcoming space, which is popular with a diverse group of local users, from individuals who would otherwise work from home to larger businesses as well as students. Visitors who arrive to the space are always commenting on how nice it feels to be here.”
Bali Dhah - Spaces The Mailbox Community Manager
Project Credits
Client:
M7 Real Estate
IWG plc
Interior Architect:
Studio Sutton
Executive Architect:
Weedon Architects
Contractor:
Rhino Interiors Group
Technical Services:
Cundall
Project Manager:
Milligan
Furniture Procurement:
FacilityLinq
Steelcase
Photography & Film:
Jim Stephenson
Alex Sutton