Formed in 1964, HLM Architects has a reputation for design excellence and expertise. Their key focus’ as a business are solving their client’s challenges, whilst being mindful of the impact that design can have on people, communities, society and the environment.
HLM moved to the Ruskin Building in 2004, a Grade II listed building with a modern three storey extension spanning from Norfolk St across to Tudor Square, which it shares with Sheffield Crucible Theatre.
Ovo Spaces worked with the building landlord for 12 months prior to the HLM project, upgrading the common & circulation areas, WC’s, showers including a new Norfolk St reception entrance.
During this period, Ovo spent considerable time with HLM collaboratively developing Ground, First and Second floor projects ready to commence upon the completion of the landlord works.
HLM created the initial space plan for the new ground floor client zone with separate upper floors as general office space. Working with Ovo, the idea was discussed to cut a large void through the First Floor and install a private staircase directly accessing the client zone below and include a new glazed reception lobby. There was also a need for new staff showers, accessible WC’s, cycle store, secure comms room and open breakout for both staff and visiting clients.
Ovo worked with HLM to create an open plan design that focused on collaboration and agile working. The design incorporated breakout space, focused working areas, dedicated meeting space and relaxed collaboration areas.
The project key was to highlight the Grade II listed building’s features which are prominent throughout the space. Large windows allow natural light and connect with the view of the Crucible Theatre, pretty Unitarian Church, Lyceum Theatre, the historic Sheffield Library and many more icons that fill the Sheffield’s City skyline.
With the building undergoing major refurbishment by Ovo prior to the HLM project, the ground floor unit, previously the Crucible Corner Bar, was stripped out to a concrete shell. Extensive civil works were required to prepare the floor and supporting steelwork for the new bespoke manufactured feature staircase.
The removal of old ceilings not only increased height but transformed the feel and increased available daylight into the office. Ovo were responsible for the construction design and fit-out of the premises, working closely with their in-house architects to achieve HLM’s ideal workplace and collaborative client zone and support areas.
HLM and their project team were thrilled with the final result. Studio Director at HLM Delia Harmston told unLTD; “The conversion of the ground floor space of the Ruskin Building to our new entrance area transforms our guest and staff arrival experience. It provides us with a contemporary, welcoming environment in which we can meet clients, colleagues and friends, whilst creating an area for staff breakout and host events.
“Linking to the refurbished first floor with a new staircase provides direct access to the ground floor, improves staff and visitor movement whilst also creating a great feature. OVO were central to all this work, being involved at the concept stage to help guide through the many options through to the final completion, working with OVO has been an enjoyable and collaborative process with an outcome that we’re all proud of.”
