Alva Coachworks

Ackroyd Lowrie transformed a vacant Victorian tram repair depot near King's Cross into Alva Coachworks, a photographic studio and events venue for Alva Studios. The retrofit celebrates the building's historic fabric while reconfiguring the plan and reducing energy consumption.

Three large studios use bespoke five-metre acoustic partitions so they can operate independently or combine for events of up to 800 people. A custom hydraulic ramp provides vehicle access, while a central service route connects the studios with a restaurant, boutique bathrooms, a VIP lounge and a roof terrace.

Completed in 2020, the project was highly commended in the Workplace under 2,000 square metres category at the 2021 AJ Retrofit Awards.