Courthouse Conversion

Basically Trade supports architects with iconic transformation

When award-winning architects IBLA were tasked with designing three new flats within the former West London County Law Courts, they knew that completing the transformation would be no mean feat. Bespoke storage was needed to create the contemporary room divisions they had in mind – so the team turned once again to Basically Trade.

IBLA Director and Architect Kim Loddo explains: ‘It was a fantastic challenge. The Grade II listed building had been partially converted in 2012, with nine upstairs flats already occupied. The ground and basement floors had originally been designated for commercial use, but it was subsequently decided it would be better utilised as residential accommodation.

‘By the time we tackled this project, the unoccupied space had been all-but abandoned for seven years and was in a serious state of disrepair.

‘The brief was to convert the remaining space into three new flats. Two duplex apartments were formed by splitting the surviving courtroom into two, and combining each half with part of the converted basement. The original court room (at ground level) forms the main living and kitchen areas, while the basement houses bedrooms, bathrooms and plant areas.

‘The third flat was created from the original courthouse entrance hallway - a dramatic 15m long, top-lit space, with a decorative terrazzo floor that became the kitchen living space.

‘As expected, Basically Trade was able to manufacture the custom storage solutions we needed. We had designed these items specifically to allow the historic spaces to maintain their scale and integrity. We wanted to create seamless architecture with the duality of functional living spaces sitting within this larger heritage space.

‘Clearly articulated and carefully detailed furniture-like insertions were introduced - stained oak storage cabinets, and grey/green banks of tall kitchen units with bronze touches - sitting lightly within and contrasting against the pale plastered enclosing walls of the existing spaces.

‘We’ve worked with Basically Trade a number of times before, so we knew we could rely on the team to supply high quality elements that would be built in, yet designed to feel like larger pieces of furniture.’

‘Judith and Steve were incredibly helpful, as always, and were able to assist with the selection of finishes; providing samples of various options for us to show the clients and also advising on the best specification of materials.

‘Upon delivery of the items, they had also provided clear instructions for the contractors on site so that assembly was quick and simple, meaning minimal disruption to timescales.

‘As a company, IBLA is always happy to work with Basically Trade because they are good value, provide a high level of service, and take time to understand what we’re looking for. They are responsive, prompt and happy to offer suggestions on alternative materials to enhance the end product. They have a wealth of knowledge to bring to the table, even about additional details such as ironmongery.

‘Their products and experience helped us complete a really successful project that looked immaculate, and the building owner was thrilled with.’

 Basically Trade’s Judith Ward said: ‘We love to see pictures of the finished products in situ because it puts all our hard work into context. One of the flats was created by converting the original entrance hallway to the court rooms. This vast space houses the kitchen and living areas and the bespoke kitchen we manufactured are treated as room dividers, creating different areas with distinct characters.

‘It’s rewarding to see our products playing such an integral role in high end projects like this, and Kim and the IBLA team were a pleasure to work with as always.’

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