Step back in time to the Nottingham War Rooms, a former Cold War command centre designed to endure the unthinkable. Built in the 1950s to withstand all but a direct hit from a nuclear bomb, it has stood as a witness to our shared post-war history. Decommissioned in 1965, this Grade II listed building has remained relatively untouched, holding a glimpse into what life would have been like for those who would have worked and lived in the war rooms if the need arose. We've meticulously documented every artifact from the building and explored local archives with Cold War experts, ensuring that the legacy lives on for generations to come.
The Nottingham War Rooms boasts a Lamson Pneumatic Tube Exchange Messaging System – one of only two remaining in the UK. The first operating pneumatic tube system was launched in 1853 at the London Telegraph Office. In 1893, Philadelphia introduced the first pneumatic tube messaging systems for telegrams, mail, and small parcels, with Boston, Brooklyn, New York, Chicago, and St. Louis also adopting the system. By 1915, these six cities collectively had over 56 miles of pneumatic tubes operating beneath their streets. Following the Second World War, the use of pneumatic tubes became focussed on localised systems, like the Nottingham War Rooms, and they still enjoy vibrant use today with healthcare and financial and accounting systems relying on pneumatic tubes to safely and securely transport materials.
Pneumatic tube systems, also known as pneumatic transport systems, efficiently convey objects or documents over short distances through a network of tubes using compressed air. Employed in diverse settings such as banks, hospitals, retail stores, and offices, these systems comprise carriers, stations, diverters, and blowers.
The operation of pneumatic tube systems involves placing materials into carriers, inserting them into stations. The blower activates, creating pressure to propel the carrier through the system. In modern systems, computerised controls manage diverters, ensuring the carrier follows the correct path and arrives at the designated destination station. In the Nottingham War Rooms, all messages would have been manually relayed through a tube exchange system, still located inside the building today.
The Lamson Pneumatic Tube Exchange would have been used to carry important Government messages around the Nottingham War Rooms, quickly relaying important information around the building to reach the relevant individuals. It is one of only two surviving systems from this era, and the project team will be working hard to restore, at least in part, the system to working order.
Lamson Pneumatic Tube Messaging System
Our proposal extends beyond the fabric of the building. Items and areas of historical significance within the Nottingham War Rooms will be preserved and restored, ensuring a living history that captivates and educates future generations.
remodelling the exterior to provide accessibility and more user-friendly space
We have taken a thoughtful and innovative approach to transform the Nottingham War Rooms into a modern, accessible, and user-friendly facility. Given the building's previous use as a nuclear bunker, our team have had to undertake a creative and meticulous process to address accessibility, natural light, and modern building regulations, all while respecting the Grade II listed status of the structure.
The unique challenges posed by the building's history have led us to propose two new accessible entrances on the ground floor. Additionally, a new extension along the southern elevation is planned, enhancing the overall usability of the Nottingham War Rooms. These modifications are designed not only to meet modern building standards but also to seamlessly integrate with the existing architectural character, ensuring a sensitive and respectful redevelopment of this Grade II listed building.
We are also embarking on a roof remodelling project. This initiative not only expands the available amenity space within the building but also introduces natural light through the redesigned roof structure. By prioritising both accessibility and the preservation of the building's historic charm, we aim to strike a balance that will enhance the overall functionality of the Nottingham War Rooms while preserving it for current and future generations.
Our design concept is centred around creating an inviting and captivating ambiance that harmoniously blends the past with the present.
In our pursuit of a cohesive and meaningful design, we have carefully considered the existing details and integrated the existing colour palette from the interior, ensuring that the design not only respects the building's unique heritage but also enhances its functionality and usability.
design concept
This exemplar development is designed to host a multitude of uses under one roof, creating a destination with a range of amenities for residents to enjoy. Below, you'll find an overview of each of the long-term viable uses that will contribute to the vibrancy and functionality of this historic building.
long-term viable uses
base 51
Within the revamped Nottingham War Rooms will be purpose designed spaces planned to host Base 51's youth projects and services. Having a space that is not only modern but also flexible allows for adaptability in addressing the evolving needs of the community. This will include offering a variety of programs, services, and activities that cater to the diverse interests and challenges faced by young people.
This opportunity for Base 51 supports their ambitious growth plan, creating a sustainable model for generating income that will provide funds to expand their programmes.
The vision for the revamped Nottingham War Rooms aligns with the principles of community engagement and empowerment, setting the stage for Base 51 to continue making a positive impact on the lives of young people in the area for the foreseeable future.
café and restaurant
Our goal is to craft a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. The café and restaurant within the Nottingham War Rooms redevelopment will include an inviting ambiance, seamlessly blending historical elements with modern comfort. Guests can anticipate a one-of-a-kind culinary journey that innovatively connects the past with the present within the 1960s cold war kitchen which will become an event space.
recording studios
Reinvigorating the existing recording studios, the project promises an exciting prospect for professionals in the creative industries. The refurbished studios within the Nottingham War Rooms will offer a unique opportunity to utilise this historically significant facility for future recordings, providing a fantastic new amenity for those working in the creative industries.
gym and wellbeing
The proposed gym and wellbeing space aim to marry the bunker's blast-proof reinforced structure with sleek, polished new elements. This concept includes versatile and inclusive workout zones, catering to different fitness preferences, from cardio and strength training to flexibility and holistic well-being practices.
exhibition space
Incorporating a captivating exhibition space, the Nottingham War Rooms redevelopment will showcase original artifacts that narrate the bunker's historical significance within the context of Nottingham’s local history. This curated space will not only preserve the authenticity of historical artifacts, but also delivers a compelling and educational experience for visitors, shedding light on the unique history of the bunker.
co-working & conferencing
The co-working and conferencing facilities within the Nottingham War Rooms redevelopment aim to seamlessly merge the practical requirements of a modern workspace with the unique historical context of a repurposed nuclear bunker. This dynamic and innovative workspace will foster collaboration, productivity, and a sense of community, providing a one-of-a-kind environment for businesses and professionals.
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long-term viable uses
This exemplar development is designed to host a multitude of uses under one roof, creating a destination with a range of amenities for residents to enjoy. Below, you'll find an overview of each of the long-term viable uses that will contribute to the vibrancy and functionality of this historic building.
base 51
Within the revamped Nottingham War Rooms will be purpose designed spaces planned to host Base 51's youth projects and services. Having a space that is not only modern but also flexible allows for adaptability in addressing the evolving needs of the community. This will include offering a variety of programs, services, and activities that cater to the diverse interests and challenges faced by young people.
This opportunity for Base 51 supports their ambitious growth plan, creating a sustainable model for generating income that will provide funds to expand their programmes.
The vision for the revamped Nottingham War Rooms aligns with the principles of community engagement and empowerment, setting the stage for Base 51 to continue making a positive impact on the lives of young people in the area for the foreseeable future.
café and restaurant
Our goal is to craft a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. The café and restaurant within the Nottingham War Rooms redevelopment will include an inviting ambiance, seamlessly blending historical elements with modern comfort. Guests can anticipate a one-of-a-kind culinary journey that innovatively connects the past with the present within the 1960s cold war kitchen which will become an event space.
Reinvigorating the existing recording studios, the project promises an exciting prospect for professionals in the creative industries. The refurbished studios within the Nottingham War Rooms will offer a unique opportunity to utilise this historically significant facility for future recordings, providing a fantastic new amenity for those working in the creative industries.
recording studios
The proposed gym and wellbeing space aim to marry the bunker's blast-proof reinforced structure with sleek, polished new elements. This concept includes versatile and inclusive workout zones, catering to different fitness preferences, from cardio and strength training to flexibility and holistic well-being practices.
gym and wellbeing
exhibition space
Incorporating a captivating exhibition space, the Nottingham War Rooms redevelopment will showcase original artifacts that narrate the bunker's historical significance within the context of Nottingham’s local history. This curated space will not only preserve the authenticity of historical artifacts, but also delivers a compelling and educational experience for visitors, shedding light on the unique history of the bunker.
The co-working and conferencing facilities within the Nottingham War Rooms redevelopment aim to seamlessly merge the practical requirements of a modern workspace with the unique historical context of a repurposed nuclear bunker. This dynamic and innovative workspace will foster collaboration, productivity, and a sense of community, providing a one-of-a-kind environment for businesses and professionals.