Confer & Karnac Bookshop

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LOCATION

  • Spitalfields

PROJECT TYPE

  • Restoration
  • Interior Refurbishment

STATUS

  • Built

Project Overview

While working at CDA I worked on and delivered the transformation of this ground floor unit from a bike store into a specialised bookshop, conference room, AV room, and staff facilities. The project unfolded in two phases: the first delivering the staff office and WC facilities by November that year, with the second culminating in the opening of the bookshop and conference room in July 2021.

The renovation involved a complete strip-out and reconfiguration of the space to accommodate various functions while enabling fluid connections between the bookshop and conference room. The bookshop, featuring birch ply shelving for a warm aesthetic, incorporates a self-contained café primarily utilised during event nights. To optimise space usage, the café is seamlessly enclosed within the built-in bookcase joinery, providing additional storage and avoiding dead space when not in use.

Custom-made birch ply joinery, including fixed bookcases, mobile units, benches, and reception desks, contributes to a cohesive and tailored feel. An existing raised platform was repurposed to create a raised AV room for live streaming of recordings. To ensure optimal sound performance, the Conference Room ceiling is lined with Ecosound Acoustic Timber Panels, offering both visual interest and enhanced acoustics.