Battersea Power Station stands as a testament to British industrial history, an iconic landmark that had fallen into disrepair before its recent restoration. Once a bustling coal-fired power station, it stood dormant for years, until visionary projects breathed new life into its aged walls. Among these projects, the creation of The Engine Room, an exclusive co-working space, stands out as a symbol of innovation and versatility.

Situated within the refurbished Battersea Power Station, The Engine Room is a 4,000sqm co-working space that encompasses a stunning double-height business club, offering panoramic views of the building’s heritage brick façade. Its design, spearheaded by Craig Welch Design, bsbp.design, and Studio Sutton complements the power station’s turbine halls and draws on the history and context of the historic building.

DBSJ, chosen as a key partner for IWG plc’s flagship co-working space in the UK, played a pivotal role in providing specialist fit-out and joinery services to The Engine Room. They were involved in The Engine Room from inception, providing valuable construction knowledge to assist IWG through the legal process, collaborating on its business case and exploring value engineering options to ensure the viability of the scheme.

Through a longstanding relationship, DBSJ enlisted the support of CDUK, who supplied PaperStone® for use on the staircase and balcony around an indoor veranda, reception desk, café counter and wall panels. CDUK was instrumental in providing crucial technical expertise when working with the material. Despite being DBSJ’s first encounter with PaperStone®, the guidance, technical advice, and provision of samples from CDUK ensured expert fabrication and seamless integration of the innovative material into the project.

Black was used for furniture and lighting, reflecting the industrial feel of the building. PaperStone® Slate colour was selected for its soft, deep and rich colour, the material chosen for its sustainable properties and finishes, aligning with Battersea Power Station’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Made from FSC-certified recycled paper and cardboard, the material embodies durability and resilience, essential qualities for a high-traffic environment like The Engine Room. Moreover, its ability to be repurposed ensures a closed-loop lifecycle, further minimising its environmental footprint.

Darren Bates, Head of Joinery, DBSJ, commented: “Our collaboration with CDUK and their provision of PaperStone® has notably contributed to the success of The Engine Room project. Their focus on sustainability and their expertise in supplying innovative materials perfectly aligned with our objectives for the space. With PaperStone®, we were able to marry style with eco-consciousness, creating a distinctive and environmentally responsible design at Battersea Power Station.”

The success of The Engine Room reflects the broader achievements of Battersea Power Station’s restoration efforts. In May 2024, the Power Station received the RIBA London Award and RIBA London Conservation Award 2024 which recognises the site’s transformation into a vibrant hub that meets the evolving needs of society while preserving its historical integrity.