The planning committee of Lambeth Council recently granted unanimous approval for a project involving the retrofitting, partial demolition, and expansion of Walker House in Vauxhall, south London, on March 17.
The approved design preserves the façade and structures of 91, 93-95, and 97 Vauxhall Walk, while 83-89 Vauxhall Walk will be demolished and redeveloped into a larger building with five to six stories.
Three existing buildings will receive two-storey roof extensions, transforming them into five and six-storey structures, while a new six-storey block will be constructed. This redevelopment will result in an increase of 617m 2 of floorspace on the 3,930m 2 site.
A vibrant ground floor will feature retail space, a new entrance, and a café for Walker Books, which has been located on the site for 37 years.
Gibson Thornley noted that this development will enhance the publisher’s engagement with local schools and families while upgrading buildings that have been modified in an ‘ad hoc’ manner since their original industrial use. Additionally, energy performance is set to improve.
The project aims for both BREEAM and NABERS accreditation, targeting a whole-life carbon footprint of approximately 580 kgCO2/m² (A1–A5), which is below the Greater London Authority (GLA) threshold and aims for an aspirational benchmark of 600 kgCO2/m².
New structures will utilize cross-laminated timber, leading to a 55% reduction in embodied carbon compared to traditional construction methods.
Matt Thornley, co-founder of Gibson Thornley, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, ‘This initiative presents an exciting opportunity to collaborate with an ambitious owner/occupier in creating a sustainable headquarters that fosters better community connections. The design respects the site’s heritage while introducing robust yet elegant extensions that enhance the local character.’
Walker Books director Mike McGrath remarked, ‘We are thrilled that the team has received approval from Lambeth. Having been in Vauxhall for over 30 years, this project enables us to develop a forward-looking building that will enhance community outreach and support local SMEs.’
Project data
- Client: Walker Books
- Architect (lead consultant): Gibson Thornley Architects
- Local authority: Lambeth
- Development manager: Trigon
- Development partner: Kingshott
- Mechanical and electrical engineer: Hydrock
- Structural engineer: Heyne Tillett Steel
- Sustainability consultant: Hydrock
- Planning consultant: DP9
- Heritage consultant: KM Heritage
- Cost consultant: Beadmans
- Fire engineer: Hydrock
- Principal designer: Project Four Safety
- Transport consultant: Caneparo
- Approved inspector: SWECO
- Public engagement: Lowick Group
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