AIR Studios

The Brief

Legendary producer of the Beatles, Sir George Martin, opened AIR studios with three other leading record producers in 1970. Its current site in Hampstead was originally a church and missionary school, Lyndhurst Hall, designed by the Victorian architect Alfred Waterhouse (also known for the Natural History Museum).

The project involved stripping out the existing dated 1990s interior, restoring the building to highlight many of its original features. The space was reconfigured to include a new cafe and front of house space under a glazed contemporary mezzanine infill.

Client

Veyron Group

Location

London NW3

Architect

Brightspace Architects

Size

4,800 ft²

Sector

  • Entertainment & Creative Industries

Services

  • Project Management
  • Cost Consultancy
  • Contract Administration
  • Capital Allowances

The Challenge

The main recording area accommodates a full symphony orchestra and choir simultaneously and has been used to record numerous iconic film scores, whilst further smaller studios are continually used by many world famous artists and bands.

A key challenge was completing the project whilst ensuring a minimal amount of downtime and closure of the studios. All work had to be planned around the music recording activities. The unique acoustics of the space is key to its appeal, and protecting this was also paramount during the refurbishment and alteration works.

The Outcome

The outcome is a welcoming front of house and cafe space which is now filled with light and set off by AIR’s signature spirograph logo.  The renovations provide facilities and breakout spaces for visiting artists, bands and orchestras which are in keeping with their international renown. 

Our Capital Allowances team successfully worked with the Client to maximise Government tax incentives in relation to their capital investment.

The studio was closed for
0 days
New space delivered
0 ft²
New glazed envelope
0 ft²

Other Projects We’ve Completed Include

BAFTA

Newport Street Gallery

Hauser & Wirth Somerset