Brunel House

Originally built in the 1960s, this former office building had been derelict for three decades. Located in the ‘The Hard’ adjacent to Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth, the 11-storey property was acquired by Makepeace Investments and plans were approved to convert and upgrade the building.

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A total of 153 apartments formed part of the design brief, primarily aimed at students. The project also required the construction of two retail units on the ground floor.

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Following a competitive tender, Vale Southern was appointed for the design and build contract. This saw the team enhance the exterior of the building with a new roof and masonry for the curtain walling system. All windows were replaced with high-specification Schuco windows combined with green glazed panels to bring colour to the scheme.

  

The windows were manufactured using anodised aluminium on the outside to increase durability and improve aesthetics. Following a design recommendation from Vale Southern, a polyester powder was used to coat the inside of the windows enabling any future repairs to be carried out more easily and cost effectively.

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Internally, Vale Southern converted the former office space into new flats, including studios with designated study areas, and apartments with ensuite bathrooms. Mechanical and electrical services were installed plus two lifts. The entrance area was remodelled and shells created for the retail units.