Francis House, situated in the heart of Victoria, was originally constructed in the late 19th century alongside Greencoat and Gordon House. These elegant, red-bricked buildings served as warehouses for the UK's flagship Army and Navy department store, which held a prime position on Victoria Street for over 150 years.

Renowned architecture and design practice Squire & Partners was invited to revisit its own refurbishment of Francis House, which was originally completed in 2000. With the evolution of the workplace post-COVID, the building required a CAT A+ fit-out to modernise the space and meet the requirements of a modern, hybrid office.

Scope

The refurbishment was spearheaded by UK-based property developers Derwent London and led by the architectural vision of Squire & Partners. Boon Edam worked closely with contractor Contrakt Ltd to better understand the project and design requirements to guarantee they delivered a bespoke entrance solution that would ensure secure, controlled access and complement the building's industrial aesthetic.

Recognising the necessity for physical security that seamlessly blends with the design of the space, Squire & Partners specified Boon Edam for their expertise in creating elegant, design-led security solutions. Based on the specification, design requirements and anticipated footfall, Boon Edam proposed the Signature Speedlane Contour. The Signature Series was the perfect solution for the project because the speed gates offer maximum flexibility with regard to access control integration and unmatched customisation options.

Solution

Boon Edam's experienced team installed a bank of Signature Speedlane Contour speed gates for the newly renovated reception. Strategically positioned ahead of the lift lobby and stairwell, these speed gates provide secure and efficient access throughout the building and act as a visual deterrent against unauthorised access. To further prioritise security and minimise the risk of intrusion, Boon Edam supplied and installed custom glass balustrades to secure either side of the bank.

The distinctive character of the former Victorian warehouse held a strong influence over the product design. The Signature Speedlane Contour speed gates installed at Francis House are truly bespoke, designed with smooth, curved edges, a galvanised stainless-steel finish, and coated in PPC Corundum Stone to complement the contemporary interior. Adding a touch of sophistication, each cabinet is also crowned with a black glass top, which contributes to the visual contrast and texture, enriching the overall ambience of the space.

Tim Gledstone, Partner at Derwent London commented: “The level of thought, quality, and customisation evident in every detail of the Signature Contour reflects our approach to the design of the project as a whole and is suitable for the top international occupiers like Edelman and all of their important guests. A beautifully considered, selected, and designed speed gate lets you know that every other detail has been highly considered too.”

Results

Francis House has been thoughtfully restored, preserving the building's Victorian charm while integrating modern, high-quality features and facilities. Implementing speed gates has not only strengthened the building's security infrastructure but has streamlined operational efficiency, aligning perfectly with Derwent London's 'Furnished and Flexible' workspace concept. The transformation has created an inviting, modern office space home to global communications giant Edelman.

Tailored to be adaptable and efficient, this project showcases the successful integration of cutting-edge security solutions within a historically rich architectural framework, setting a new precedent for future refurbishments prioritising heritage preservation and innovation.

Project Team

Architect: Squire & Partners
Contractor (Client): Contrakt Ltd
Interior Design: Gensler
Property Developer: Derwent London



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