Thomas-McBrien Architects and New Wave London have reimagined the headquarters of the high-end contractor in northwest London, proving that adaptive reuse can deliver results that balance architectural ambition with sustainable design. Rather than relocating after 15 years in the space, New Wave London worked with Thomas-McBrien to enhance its functionality while minimizing its environmental impact.
The project introduces a 600 square meter lightweight timber pavilion, expanding the two-story industrial building without altering its footprint. This approach supports New Wave London’s growing operations while providing affordable workspace for small and medium businesses in the London Borough of Brent. The nine rentable units, ranging from 40 to 105 square meters, address the area’s increasing demand for flexible commercial space, earning strong support from local planning officials.
A Design That Honors the Original Structure
Thomas-McBrien designed the timber extension to sit atop the building’s load-bearing perimeter walls, avoiding major structural modifications. A Douglas-fir glulam frame forms the foundation of the new pavilion, chosen for its strength and low environmental impact. The material’s carbon sequestration properties significantly reduce emissions, and its durability ensures long-term efficiency.
New Wave House remains true to its industrial character, but the addition brings natural warmth and refined craftsmanship. Large expanses of glass increase daylight penetration, creating a bright and inviting work environment. Nestled among the trees, the pavilion offers a sense of connection to the surrounding urban greenery while maintaining a practical, low-maintenance aesthetic.
Prioritizing Material Reuse and Waste Reduction
Sustainability guided every aspect of the project. The existing insulated roof panels were carefully removed, stored on-site, and later reinstalled in the new extension, preventing unnecessary waste. Offcuts from the Douglas-fir glulam beams were repurposed into doors, windows, and joinery, ensuring no material went to waste.
Additional materials salvaged from past New Wave London projects found new life in the design. Lime render from a previous Aēsop retail project was applied to interior walls, while plasterboard, insulation, and sanitary fixtures were recovered and reused. Light fixtures, sockets, and switch plates were also repurposed, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainable resource management.
Low-Tech Solutions for Energy Efficiency
Thomas-McBrien and New Wave London prioritized passive design strategies to reduce the building’s operational carbon footprint. A light-grey pigmented SiOO:X Wood Protector coats the exterior timber, ensuring durability while allowing it to develop a natural patina over time.
Inside, Troldtekt wood wool panels were installed between the Douglas-fir joists as an alternative to conventional plasterboard and paint, providing a cost-effective acoustic solution. The project also introduced low-tech shutters for cross ventilation, improving airflow and reducing the need for mechanical cooling.
Energy data collected over a two-year period showed a 25% decrease in energy use per square meter, even with a 40% increase in floor area. The results demonstrate how thoughtful upgrades can enhance performance without relying on high-tech interventions.
A Fully Operational Site Throughout Construction
Construction took place over two years without disrupting New Wave London’s daily operations. An enclosed scaffold system allowed work to continue year-round, keeping the company’s projects on schedule.
New Wave London’s ground-floor joinery workshop played a key role in production, with 13-meter Douglas-fir glulam beams cut on-site before being craned onto the roof. This hands-on approach ensured precision while reinforcing the contractor’s dedication to craftsmanship.
A Green Roof for the Community
The project introduced a 100 square meter communal roof terrace, lined with native plants and custom-built planters crafted from salvaged materials. Improved landscaping at the front of the building supports local ecosystems by providing habitats for pollinators. Every tree on and adjacent to the site was carefully preserved throughout construction, reinforcing the project’s respect for existing natural elements.
Setting a Standard for Rooftop Development
New Wave House serves as a model for airspace development, demonstrating how upward expansion can optimize existing structures rather than relying on new construction. Thomas-McBrien and New Wave London leveraged their long-standing partnership to navigate the project’s complexities, ensuring that sustainability and craftsmanship remained central to the design.
Reflecting on the project, Barry McBrien, founder of Thomas-McBrien Architects, emphasized the importance of sustainable design in an industry with significant environmental impact. “We recognize our responsibility to advocate for efficient, resource-conscious architecture. This extension sets a benchmark for urban regeneration, combining sustainability with practical, well-designed spaces.”
Ziomek Wiertelak, Director of New Wave London, echoed the sentiment, calling the project a success that has strengthened the company’s identity. “Our new headquarters has exceeded our expectations. It stands as a testament to the power of great architecture and the impact of thoughtful, well-executed design.”
Location: Brent, London
Construction: began 2021
Completion: 30/11/2023
Gross internal floor area: 1725 sqm (495 sqm GIA for timber roof extension)
Local Authority: Brent Council
Architect: Thomas-McBrien Architects
Client: New Wave London
Form of contract/procurement: Contractor Led
Design: Thomas-McBrien Architects & New Wave London
Planning consultant: Montagu Evans
Structural engineer: LIM Engineering
M&E consultant: New Wave London
Building Control: Assent Building Control
Sustainability consultant: The PES
Main contractor: New Wave London
CAD: Thomas-McBrien Architects
Construction cost: £1,350,000 (roof extension only – approx £2,700/sqm)
Photographer: Ståle Eriksen
Model Maker: Studio Youel
Products
Timber structure: Douglas fir Glulam
Timber Protection: SiOO:X Premium Pigmented ‘Light Grey’ Wood Protector
Carpet tile: Forbo Tessera Chroma carpet tiles 3610 Thatch
Floor finish: Forbo Marmoleum Cocoa 3580 Milk Chocolate
Interior timber: Douglas fir (mix of solid & veneer)
Interior timber finish: SiOO:X Premium Pigmented ‘Light Grey’ Wood Protector
Interior wall finish: SecilTek Reabilita Cal AC lime render
Ceiling finish: Troldtekt Acoustic Wood Wool board
