Office Renovation Week 1: A Blank Canvas

The first week of our new office journey began with Dean formally receiving the keys to the property and with that our first proper look at the building in its current condition.

To describe it as a blank canvas would be fair. The ground floor, which is planned to become the main functional space, is currently in a stripped-back state. Exposed breeze block walls, bare structural pillars and a dirty looking concrete floor make it clear that the building has been unused for some time. Above, sections of the ceiling have deteriorated, with ageing panels beginning to fall away and exposing the wiring and lighting infrastructure overhead.

It may not look like much just yet, but this stage is an important part of the process. Seeing the structure in its raw form allows us to properly assess what is required to transform it into a practical, modern working environment.

Assessing the Space

The initial focus this week has been on understanding the condition of the building and identifying priorities for refurbishment.

At present, no renovation work has taken place on the ground floor. The layout remains open and undecided in certain areas, providing flexibility as plans develop. There is potential for some rooms to be converted into a kitchen and dining or break-out space, although final decisions are yet to be confirmed.

At this stage, the priority is not aesthetics but fundamentals including structure, layout, services and ensuring the building is functional for the business.

The Missing Energy Meter

During the initial inspection, it was noted that an energy meter that is typically expected within a commercial property is currently absent from the building.

This will need to be addressed before the building can become fully operational. Electricity and gas meters are essential for measuring energy usage, enabling accurate billing, and allowing a property to be connected to an active energy supply. Without a meter in place, it is not possible to properly monitor consumption or maintain a standard supply agreement.

Situations involving a missing energy meter can also raise a number of practical considerations. These can include confirming whether the property still has an active supply, identifying the correct supply details (such as registered meter points), and arranging for the safe installation or replacement of the meter. In many cases, checks are required to ensure the existing infrastructure is suitable and compliant before any reconnection can take place. This process can involve coordination with energy suppliers, network operators, and metering providers, depending on the condition and history of the site.

Resolving this will be an important step as the renovation progresses.

From Structure to Workspace

Although the current condition reflects a building that has been largely unused, the potential is clear. What we are seeing now is the starting point, the foundations before the real transformation begins.

Over the coming weeks, attention will turn to addressing the essential elements required to bring the property up to standard and move it closer to becoming a fully functioning workspace.

This is very much the beginning of the journey, and we look forward to sharing each stage as the building gradually takes shape.