This project involved the transformation of Grade II listed former Birmingham central fire station into student housing, providing 430 bedspaces.

The station was the main facility for the city of Birmingham until it closed its doors for good in 2006. It covered all aspect of the fire service in the city, with space for up to 11 engines, office facilities, a residential element, a drill tower and even a ballroom. Eventually, after its closure it became a popular filming location due to its derelict condition. Line of Duty, Luther and BBC spy thriller ‘The Game’ all shot scenes here.

Our challenge as architects was to convert the building for modern, comfortable student housing whilst preserving its original character. During the design process, we found ways to use all the available space to make the scheme as efficient as possible, and we adapted the firemen’s flats, roofspaces and also even the belltower and the drill tower for residential use. To make good use of the engine bay and ballroom whilst also preserving their volume, bedroom pods were inserted into the space, which helped to preserve their character. We paid great attention to original features, which were carefully restored and existing re-used in a sensitive and innovative manner. We integrated many of these into the design, including original lighting, original timber panelled walls and even the fireman’s pole.

This project eventually won Channel 4 restoration of the year in 2017 (20th century category)

Client: Watkin Jones

Value: £35M

Status: Completed 2019 (whist at K4 Architects)

_{Images courtesy of K4 Architects / BG Projects}