We were so pleased to hear that The Robinson in the Art Deco Stanley Building in Blackpool, won the prestigious Regeneration and Conservation Award at the North West Regional Construction Awards 2026. There are so many heritage buildings crying out for a new life, so achieving this award demonstrates what vision and investment can create.

Preserving the main structure is just one part of a project like this, stabilising any issues to ensure it has sound foundations, then refurbishing the original features to preserve the building’s history. Most buildings, especially older ones, have their own quirks, in this case having a triangular footprint, this is when creative vision is needed to ensure the building is reutilised effectively. Working with quirks like these to create a space which is functional but doesn’t lose all its heritage is the key to a successful regeneration project.

In The Robinson we worked with the triangular shape to create bigger meeting rooms at the widest point, moving through larger offices and getting smaller towards to narrowest point, optimising the space available. The sectional styled glass panels and doors of these offices allow natural light to flow in and reflect the original era of the building, while the Art Deco styled vinyl applied to the glazing provides practical privacy. Each floor has shared services areas, such as toilets and kitchens, all with modern amenities, but again with a nod to the heritage through Art Deco-style tiling. The styling is repeated on each floor, but all with their own colour, taken from our Art Deco inspired pallet. All of these seemingly little details are what enables the building to celebrate its original design, but with a modern twist.

Regenerating these old buildings can be a more sustainable option, reutilising our existing resources, rather than creating more purpose-built structures – this is also true for the interiors. In The Robinson project, original acoustics panels, salvaged from the local law courts, were refurbished and reused in the meeting room, so that noise didn’t travel through to the adjoining spaces. The vintage panels, sit perfectly alongside the modern teleconferencing provisions in the meeting rooms.

There’s no denying that repurposing old buildings brings challenges, however, we had the creative skill to develop functional and aesthetically designed spaces at The Robinson that pay homage to its heritage but provide an environment fit for today’s workplace needs.   Bringing life to these beautiful old buildings just requires vision and teamwork.