Hodge House, Cardiff

Hodge House is an iconic Grade II listed, eight-storey building in Cardiff. As Principal Contractor for the refurbishment, taking on the responsibility of the design from RIBA Stage 4, we were tasked with the objective of restoring the building and transforming it into a 21^st century workspace that would appeal to the next generation of occupiers.

Originally constructed in 1915 for the Co-operative Wholesale Society on the site of the old Town Hall, the building has been stripped back to reveal original cast iron decorative columns, riveted steel structures and a variety of exposed brick and plasterwork. Authentic period features, including the vaulted ballroom and ornate heritage stair balustrading, have been meticulously restored to reveal the character of the building.  

The exposed ceiling to the upper floors creates a ‘de-furbished’ look and feel whilst contemporary finishes presented through communal spaces create a significant ‘wow’ factor. All M&E systems have been replaced throughout, as well as lifts and lighting. There was also a large external package of works completed ranging from roof repairs to facade treatments.  

With panoramic views over landmark buildings in Wales, including the Principality Stadium and Cardiff Castle, the 6^th floor has been transformed into a future-proof, high quality environment that promotes activity-based working.

Modern amenities have been delivered to appeal to the aspirations of future occupiers, including a hospitality style reception space, cycle storage and lockers, showers and changing rooms to support health and well-being and encourage sustainable travel. A ‘Get Ready’ room allows the building’s more than 1,100 staff to seamlessly transition from work to play, whilst a multi-purpose studio and south-facing roof terrace provide space for relaxation and socialising.

Hodge House is the first building in Wales to achieve Wired Certified Gold, recognising its quality of digital infrastructure and has also been shortlisted within two categories of the Wales Property Awards 2020 for Development and Workplace Design.