Vulcan Works
Revitalising heritage for creative futures
Originally home to traditional local industries—ironworks, leather merchants, and manufacturers—the site has been reimagined to provide managed workspaces and studios for creative small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Offered as flexible and affordable units, they have been designed to support innovation and growth in emerging creative industries.
The overarching aim of the project is to stimulate regeneration in a key part of the town centre whileattracting a diverse range of new businesses. The design team adopted an approach that respects and enhances the existing buildings, while also introducing exceptional contemporary architecture. Two striking new buildings—located to the north and south of the site—have been added, including one that connects the ground floor to the original Fetter Street and Victorian workshops.
Internally, a light-touch restoration approach has preserved the industrial character of the workshops, with exposed brickwork, visible roof structures, and open services. These features have been echoed in the new buildings, creating a seamless transition between old and new. Meanwhile, the more refined interiors of the Weights and Measures and Guildhall Road buildings have been retained and upgraded for improved thermal performance.
The development now offers 68 lettable units, ranging in size from 10m² to 100m², designed to foster a thriving community of creative and tech enterprises.
Empowering SMEs through adaptive and accessible design
Creating flexible yet purpose-built spaces that can adapt to future working styles was a key requirement from the client. Breaking away from the outdated, siloed office models of the past, Vulcan Works places collaboration, inclusivity, and creativity at the heart of its design. Of the 68 units delivered, a number include centralised spaces specifically designed for networking and collaboration, complemented by shared amenities such as plant rooms, meeting areas, and photocopying facilities.
An entrepreneurial hub was introduced within the reception areas of some units, intended to foster learning, knowledge exchange, and creative inspiration. All units have been retrofitted to suit a diverse range of SMEs and industry types. For instance, spaces without direct street-facing windows were adapted for ‘making’ industries, which are less dependent on external views—these are instead illuminated with generous roof lighting. In contrast, units along Fetter Street were designed to encourage active frontages, maximising engagement with foot traffic.
Vulcan Works is now a fully accessible and inclusive environment. Previously fragmented across ten separate buildings with no lifts or accessible toilets, the site has been comprehensively reconfigured to support users of all mobility levels. Despite the challenging topography, three platform lifts have been strategically installed, and floor plans were carefully designed to ensure clear, legible access throughout the site. Inclusive signage and wayfinding have been integrated to aid navigation.
Details
- Client West Northamptonshire Council
- Team Cambridge Studio
- Location Northampton
- Country United Kingdom
- Listing Status Grade II
- Photography Diane Auckland
