Foundation, Altrincham
- Location
- Trafford, UK
- Client
- Trafford Bruntwood (Stamford Quarter) LLP
- Expertise
- Architecture
- Advisory Services
- Design Management
- Completion
- 2024
- Size
- 8,720 sq m
- Cost
- £13.7m
A strategic retrofit approach strengthened commercial performance, reduced embodied carbon and repositioned a legacy retail asset for long term town centre regeneration.
Foundation reimagines an outdated department store as a vibrant, low‑carbon destination for work, wellbeing and social connection. Designed by BDP and developed with Bruntwood and Trafford Council, the project integrates modern office accommodation with dining, beverage and leisure facilities to create a flexible, future‑ready town‑centre hub.
A two‑storey extension, central atrium and living wall enhance daylight, biodiversity and energy efficiency. Retaining the original superstructure significantly reduces embodied carbon, while energy‑efficient systems and an all‑electric design support decarbonisation goals. Provisions for photovoltaic panels further strengthen long‑term sustainability.
The redevelopment promotes social sustainability through enhanced connectivity, user amenities and spaces that encourage interaction. Smart lighting and environmental control systems optimise energy use and improve operational performance. By combining adaptive reuse, sustainability and technology‑enabled systems, the project rejuvenates a key town‑centre asset and sets a benchmark for resilient, mixed‑use urban redevelopment.
Repositioning legacy retail for growth
Our Asset Optimisation advisory services supported the client in transforming an underused department store into a future‑ready mixed‑use destination. The challenge centred on repositioning the asset to meet shifting high‑street dynamics while unlocking commercial value and reducing investment risk. Through an evidence‑led approach, we assessed the retained structure, reconfigured floorplates and identified opportunities to enhance operational efficiency, daylighting and tenant appeal.
We developed a strategy that increased lettable area, improved energy performance through fabric‑first upgrades and diversified income streams across workspace, leisure and F&B uses. Public‑realm enhancements and active‑travel facilities broadened market reach and strengthened connectivity.
By integrating sustainability, adaptive‑reuse principles and technology‑enabled systems, we reduced embodied carbon and improved long‑term asset resilience. Foundation now operates as a high‑performing commercial asset that supports town‑centre regeneration and provides a scalable model for optimising legacy retail stock.
"It reactivates a prominent but underperforming building, supports town centre regeneration, and offers a model for the reuse of large, ageing retail buildings."