Brokers Lounge & Bar Visual
PROJECT
Unio Wealth Management Office
LOCATION
Atkins Dining Hall Sundays Well
Co.Cork Irleand
YEAR
Third Academic Year 2025
This project explores the transformation of an existing dining hall into a contemporary workplace for Unio Wealth Management, creating a refined office environment that reflects both the character of the historic building and the identity of its new tenant. The proposal is centred on establishing a strong connection between past and present, allowing the existing architectural features to remain visible while introducing a carefully considered modern intervention.
The design is informed by the geometry of Unio’s brand, where the interlocking “U” and “N” form a series of arch motifs. This language is translated into the spatial and architectural strategy, reinforcing a relationship with the existing arched structure of the building. The scheme incorporates a variety of workspaces, including open-plan offices, private meeting rooms, and informal breakout areas, all organised within a cohesive layout. Through material contrast, lighting, and spatial sequencing, the project creates a calm, high-end workplace that supports both staff and client experience while reflecting Unio’s values of trust, strength, and community.
CATEGORY
Adaptive Reuse | Workplace
Client Profile
Concept Development
The Concept
The concept is derived from the interlocking geometry of Unio’s logo, combined with the existing arched language of the dining hall. This is developed into a series of vertical arched towers that sit within the space, carefully positioned to respect the existing structure.
These elements stand independently from the historic fabric and are connected by bridges, creating a layered spatial experience while preserving large open volumes. The result is a dramatic yet balanced intervention that integrates contemporary design within the existing architectural context.
Precedent Study
The project draws inspiration from La Fábrica by Ricardo Bofill, where contemporary interventions are inserted within an industrial structure to create a dialogue between old and new. The use of repeated arched forms contrasts with the existing fabric while remaining sensitive to its scale and rhythm.
This approach informed the development of the arched tower structures, using the arch as a spatial device to guide movement and frame views. The contrast between new and existing elements enhances the character of the space, allowing both to be clearly expressed.
Materiality
The material palette contrasts the raw existing stone fabric with a refined selection of contemporary finishes. Dark oak, aged brass, and Connemara marble introduce warmth and richness, while softer materials such as linen and textured plaster add depth and tactility. The palette is intentionally restrained, creating a calm, cohesive atmosphere.
This contrast enhances the relationship between old and new, allowing both to be clearly expressed. The result is a sophisticated and minimal interior that balances richness with simplicity, reinforcing a high-end and timeless quality.
Look & Feel
The design creates a calm and refined atmosphere through a palette of warm neutrals, rich materials, and soft textures. Repeated arched forms introduce rhythm and continuity, while carefully considered lighting enhances depth and spatial experience.
The contrast between the existing fabric and contemporary intervention results in a layered, tactile environment. The overall feel is sophisticated and minimal, balancing heritage with a modern, high-end identity.
The Concept Model
The physical model explores the development of the arched tower forms, testing how they define space, movement, and connection. Through a series of interlocking volumes, the model highlights the relationship between solid and void, as well as the balance between openness and enclosure.
It demonstrates how the intervention can sit independently within the existing structure, while forming a cohesive and integrated spatial language.
Space Planning Drawings
Detailed Design Drawings
The Visuals
Break-out Space and Kitchenette
Stairs Visual
Entrance Space
Central Atrium Space
Design Presentation
Final Unio Presentation Drop
Exploded Axonometric
Sectional Perspective