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Overview
The Dakota building in Weybridge, Surrey underwent a major refurbishment designed to transform the appearance, functionality, and commercial value of the existing office development.
Originally constructed in the 1990s, the building required modernisation to meet the expectations of contemporary office tenants and to improve the efficiency of the internal layout. The redevelopment focused on both architectural enhancement and the expansion of usable workspace, with the goal of significantly increasing the lettable area of the building.
Structura was appointed to deliver the glazing elements of the project, including the installation of a new full-height atrium, a contemporary architectural glazing façade, curtain walling for newly added floors, and glazing for a roof terrace. These elements formed a central part of the redevelopment strategy, enabling the building to achieve a more modern architectural identity while improving internal circulation and natural light.
Through careful design integration and glazing engineering, the project successfully transformed an ageing office building into a contemporary commercial space with significantly expanded floor area and improved sustainability credentials.
Details
Client:
RO Real Estate
Location:
De Havilland Drive, Weybridge
Architect:
Tate Hindle
Main Contractor:
Oakmont Construction Ltd
Consultant:
Cladtech Associates Ltd
Project Metrics
The Dakota refurbishment delivered measurable improvements in building performance and commercial capacity. Key performance and project metrics include:
Project Type: Commercial office refurbishment
Additional Floor Area Added: Approximately 15,000 sq ft
Total Lettable Area After Redevelopment: 35,582 sq ft
Sustainability Target: BREEAM Very Good
Energy Performance Rating: EPC A
These outcomes demonstrate how strategic refurbishment and architectural glazing can significantly enhance the value and usability of an existing office building.
The Challenge
The Dakota refurbishment presented several architectural and engineering challenges typical of commercial office redevelopments. The project required a careful balance between modernising the building’s appearance, increasing the usable space, and working within the constraints of the existing structure.
Modernising a 1990s Office Building
The original Dakota building was constructed in the 1990s and featured traditional brick cladding typical of office developments from that period. While structurally sound, the building no longer met the aesthetic or functional expectations of modern office occupiers. Contemporary office spaces increasingly prioritise natural light, open-plan layouts, and visually striking entrances that enhance the experience for visitors and tenants. The refurbishment therefore needed to introduce modern architectural elements that would refresh the building’s appearance while integrating with the existing structure.
Expanding the Usable Floor Area
A key objective of the redevelopment was to significantly increase the building’s lettable space. The project aimed to add approximately 15,000 square feet of new floor area, nearly doubling the existing footprint of the office building. This required careful structural planning and façade design to ensure that the additional floors could be integrated into the building while maintaining both structural integrity and architectural consistency.
Improving Internal Circulation
The original building layout placed limitations on how internal spaces could be organised. To improve circulation and make better use of the interior space, the project included plans to relocate the main reception area and reorganise the internal core. This reconfiguration would allow the addition of new lifts, stairs, and improved facilities, but required the design of a new entrance space capable of creating a strong visual focal point for the building.
Delivering a Contemporary Office Environment
Modern office buildings are expected to meet higher standards of environmental performance and occupant comfort. The Dakota refurbishment needed to support improved sustainability performance while also creating an attractive workplace environment that could compete with newer office developments in the region. The glazing strategy therefore needed to enhance natural light, improve building performance, and contribute to the overall architectural transformation of the building.
Structura’s Solution
Structura delivered a comprehensive glazing solution that played a central role in the redevelopment of the Dakota office building. The project involved the installation of new architectural glazing systems across several key parts of the building, including a full-height atrium, curtain walling for new floors, and glazing for a roof terrace. These elements combined to modernise the building façade while supporting the expansion of the internal floor area.
Full-Height Atrium Glazing
One of the most significant elements of the project was the creation of a new full-height atrium at the entrance of the building. The atrium acts as a central architectural feature that transforms the arrival experience for visitors and tenants. By introducing a large glazed space at the entrance, the building benefits from increased natural light and a more open, contemporary feel.
The glazing installation required precise coordination to ensure that the atrium structure integrated correctly with the existing building while providing the desired visual impact. Relocating the reception area into the atrium allowed the internal layout to be reorganised more effectively, freeing up space within the building core.
Curtain Walling for New Storeys
As part of the redevelopment, the second and third floors of the building were completely remodelled. Structura installed full-height curtain walling for these new storeys, providing a modern façade solution that complements the existing brick structure while creating a contemporary visual contrast.
Curtain walling systems offer several advantages for commercial office developments, including increased natural daylight penetration, improved views for occupants, greater design flexibility, and a modern architectural appearance. The new curtain wall façade helped transform the building’s external identity while supporting the expansion of the usable floor space.
Roof Terrace Glazing
The refurbishment also included the creation of a roof terrace, adding a valuable amenity space for building occupants. Glazing systems were installed around the terrace to provide safety and weather protection while maintaining clear views and a modern aesthetic. Roof terraces have become increasingly desirable in office developments, offering outdoor space that enhances the workplace environment for tenants.
Integration with Existing Brick Cladding
One of the key challenges of the project was integrating modern glazing systems with the building’s existing brick façade. The glazing elements were carefully designed to complement the original structure while introducing a more contemporary architectural language. This balance between old and new allows the building to maintain its structural character while benefiting from modern design features.
Project Results
The Dakota refurbishment successfully transformed the office building into a modern commercial workspace with expanded floor area and improved architectural appeal. The glazing installations delivered by Structura played a critical role in achieving both the aesthetic and functional goals of the redevelopment.
Significant Expansion of Lettable Space
One of the most important outcomes of the project was the increase in usable floor area. The redevelopment added approximately 15,000 square feet of new space, significantly expanding the building’s capacity for commercial tenants. Following the refurbishment, the building now offers a total lettable area of 35,582 square feet. This nearly doubles the original footprint of the office development, increasing its commercial value and market appeal.
Improved Internal Layout and Facilities
Relocating the reception area to the new atrium allowed the internal layout of the building to be reorganised more efficiently. The redesign created space for two lifts, new toilet facilities and additional stair access. These improvements enhance the usability of the building and support the increased occupancy enabled by the expanded floor area.
Contemporary Architectural Identity
The addition of curtain wall glazing and the full-height atrium significantly modernised the visual appearance of the building. The contrast between the original brick cladding and the new glazing systems creates a contemporary façade that reflects modern office design while respecting the structure of the original building. This transformation helps position the building competitively within the local commercial property market.
Sustainability Performance
The refurbished Dakota building is expected to achieve strong environmental performance ratings. The project is targeting a BREEAM Very Good certification and an EPC Rating A. These ratings indicate improved energy efficiency and environmental performance compared to the original building. For commercial property developers and tenants, sustainability credentials are increasingly important factors when selecting office space.
Conclusion
The Dakota office building refurbishment demonstrates how targeted architectural upgrades can transform an ageing commercial property into a modern workspace. By introducing a full-height glazed atrium, contemporary curtain walling, and roof terrace glazing, Structura helped deliver a building that offers expanded space, improved functionality, and a more attractive architectural identity.
The project highlights the important role that specialist glazing systems play in commercial refurbishments. Through careful design integration and engineering expertise, glazing solutions can enhance natural light, improve internal layouts, and create striking architectural features that redefine the character of a building. With the addition of nearly 15,000 square feet of new floor space and strong sustainability credentials, the Dakota redevelopment provides a clear example of how existing office buildings can be successfully repositioned to meet the demands of modern workplaces.