Set along the banks of the River Medway, this extraordinary Grade II* listed Egyptian Revival waterworks has been reimagined as the headquarters of a British audio specialist. Built in 1860 by James Pilbrow, the building once featured a grand obelisk chimney — a symbol of its industrial past now reinterpreted in a new contemporary form.
The design blends heritage and modernity, creating a workspace that reflects both the precision of the brand’s craft and the strength of the building’s character. A new rooftop extension draws inspiration from Egyptian pylons — the monumental gateways of temples like Karnak — rising in a tapered rhythm that echoes the original brickwork. Clad in weathering Corten steel, it will evolve gracefully with time, deepening in tone to complement the historic façade.
Inside, sun baked colours adorn the walls, bespoke glass motifs, and durable tiled finishes reference Egyptian artistry and the building’s riverine setting. The result is a thoughtful adaptation — a poetic balance of past and present, resilience and renewal.
Photographer: Chris Snook Lighting Designer: Integrated Light







