The Warehouse
DMW was commissioned by a private client with a vision to reimagine a disused glass factory into a dynamic living and working environment. The brief sought to retain the character of the original structure while creating distinct zones for workspaces, living areas, and private quarters.
Project Director: Ryan Martin
Status: Complete
Situated in an urban area of Bournemouth, the former glass factory occupies a prominent yet underutilised site. Its vaulted, double-height structure and robust framework presented an opportunity to celebrate industrial architecture while addressing the practical needs of modern habitation. The building’s historic use provided a rich narrative for the design.
The proposal juxtaposes open-plan areas with intimate, enclosed spaces, echoing the dual purpose of the building. The design leverages the building’s original volume, with the double-height ceiling providing a sense of expansiveness while maintaining smaller scale proportions in intimate rooms. The architectural language combines industrial modernism with contemporary minimalism. Exposed structural elements, such as steel beams and trusses, celebrate the factory’s origins, while new insertions of lightweight partitions and glass create a sense of modern refinement.
The ground floor was designated for functional uses, including storage, a workshop, an office, and a meeting room. The first floor features open-plan living areas, zoned through large furniture pieces and sliding partitions, creating a fluid yet defined layout. The material selection respects the building’s heritage while introducing modern elements. Steel, glass, and timber were used throughout, blending durability with warmth and transparency.
Lightweight construction methods were employed to minimise intervention in the original structure. Prefabricated wall systems ensured efficient installation, while bespoke elements were designed to sit alongside the existing structural framework. The project demonstrates the potential of adaptive reuse in urban settings, preserving the character of industrial structures while meeting contemporary needs.