Carbon Building

Dramatical transformation of stately office building in Reading

The Carbon Building is a new prominent office building in the town centre of Reading. With the impressive scale of 27,437 sq ft, it is just a stone’s throw from Reading’s fantastic amenities.

Orbit Architects was appointed to refurbish this run-down 1990’s building. The brief was to create a new and edgy look for the building that would rebrand it visually; with the greater ‘industrial’ look to differentiate it from other local commercial buildings. This was made all the more challenging by having to retain and refresh the adjacent Highbridge House, a former stable house and Grade II listed building, that forms part of the development.

Planning permission and listed building consent were obtained for the removal of less desirable 1990’s features. The existing external facade received a captivating black paint, with a new relocated entrance, signage and canopy that improved the prominence of the building.  

Internally, a new reception area has been created for the main building that ushers on to new and enhanced shower and washroom facilities. This leads on to the new office areas that have a sprayed black soffit with exposed metallic ceiling services design. Highbridge House now forms a separate tenancy with its own unique fit out of brick slip feature wall, exposed timber floors and simple white painted walls and ceilings.

The Carbon Building’s dramatic transformation is a shining example of a comprehensive upgrade that brings a unique, contemporary feel to Reading’s business district.