The site here was originally a Victorian Refuge, parts of the building have and are being retained such as the noticeable entrances stipulating Women only. These will be incorporated into the redevelopment; the majority of the shell of the building will in fact be retained. Eight floors of office space will surround a courtyard with a retractable glass roof providing chill out areas.

This utilisation of existing properties represents a good example of how a demand for office space has changed to a degree. Instead of pulling down older buildings, often with more character there is a noticeable shift to the retention of features that make these areas unique.

Rather than becoming completely dominated by the style of buildings found in most business centres around the world individuality is being sought. Costs of projects like these obviously entail a premium, however in an increasing number of cases a premium that is being deemed worthwhile.

What this redevelopment also further highlights is the increasing pressure being put upon the surrounding areas. This development is located just inside Tower Hamlets, one of the poorest boroughs in the UK, which raises the question of is this the most beneficial use of the land? In terms of facilitating the further development of the city and it's related service/office concentration and helping to cement it's position as one of the premier financial centres in the world of course it helps.

Or can this be viewed as a further encroachment on a poorer neighbour? The jobs created are unlikely to be filled by local people and yet this development could be considered a further utilisation of local space. The more spread out the city becomes the more likely that areas close to Brick Lane and the communities associated with these areas will be changed forever.

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