The adaptive retrofit of an historic brick maltings building reinvigorates a family business.
The refurbishment and extension of the Old Maltings at the Badger Brewery in Blandford is the most recent phase of a programme of work by Hall & Woodhouse Ltd, the independent family brewer founded in 1777.
Funded by the sale of H&W’s original 19th century brewery for residential use, the Old Maltings consolidates and upgrades its business for the 21st century with enhanced hygiene, productivity and sustainability., reduced running costs and flexibility for future growth.
The existing Maltings comprised a 4-storey brick structure with large slated roofs, large expansive floors, once used for drying hops, minimal head room and little circulation.
We inserted new staircases at each end of the building, one internal and the other in a new external lift and stair shaft, each of which diminishes towards the top in proportion to diminishing footfall. This creates a dynamic spatial experience within the internal staircase with the external stair shaft signalling the new era for the brewery and creating a contemporary feature within the historic townscape.
All admin functions, previously scattered across the estate, are consolidated within the one building to strengthen the overall ethos and cohesion of the company. The building also accommodates new conference facilities, a brewery visitor centre and shop and a training kitchen.
The adaptive reuse of a building that has served the brewery for over 100 years is emblematic of the growth of a family business, signalling progress, continuity and success whilst preserving heritage and culture.
