Robinson Building

2006 - 2010

The redevelopment of this 1870s former paper bag factory provides 100 flats arranged on seven levels around a dramatic circular atrium. Natural light streams into the heart of the building through the 12 metre diameter oculus which is glazed with ETFE cushions.

The atrium is conceived as a unified interior space, with the industrial heritage of the building as the principal design generator. The existing cast and wrought iron structure of the original building has been retained and exposed where it crosses the void of the atrium. New elements echo the industrial past of the building through the use of carefully considered palette of materials which includes perforated metal, glass block, reclaimed timber and chequer plate flooring to the upper walkways. Apartment front doors are clad in oak boarding to differentiate them from other doors, with signage in supergraphics.

The dramatic lifts are a stripped down standard car, with glazed sides and no enclosing lift shaft. These rise the full height of the space, hung on a minimalist steel framework, against a brightly coloured curved wall which catches sunlight and reflects a warm glow deep into the building.

A further link with the past is the incorporation of a restored frieze depicting the many aspects of 19th Century printing, which was rescued from the long demolished original Robinson headquarters building, and is on permanent loan from Bristol City Museum.

Construction was completed in 2010. The development was awarded a CABE Building for Life Silver Standard and Premier Guarantee Excellence Award 2010 Conversion project of the year - Regional winner. A Bristol Civic Society Environmental Award followed in 2011.