Northwood Properties

The Northwood Properties HQ stands as a powerful example of how thoughtful refurbishment can breathe new life into an existing structure. What was once a tired 1970s building has been reimagined as a confident and welcoming home for a modern property business—balancing brand identity, functionality, and a deep respect for the original fabric.

A New Identity, Rooted in Respect

This transformation was only possible through a strong, collaborative relationship between client, designer, and contractor. From the earliest conversations, Steve and Debra brought clarity of vision and trust in the process, enabling decisions that both respected the constraints of the building and pushed its potential.

Design Approach: Embracing Character, Reworking Space

The building’s original structure presented both challenge and opportunity. Instead of fighting against its character, the design embraced it peeling back layers to reveal underlying strengths while introducing new interventions that added warmth and functionality.

This wasn’t a radical reinvention, but a considered reworking. The design team worked to understand how each space could better serve Northwood’s staff and clients bringing light into previously dark interiors, improving flow, and creating moments of calm and clarity throughout the workplace.

One particularly successful gesture was the reconfiguration of the reception area. A space that once felt cold and anonymous was reimagined as a welcoming threshold, setting the tone for the entire experience of the building.

Material Strategy: Reclaiming Warmth and Craft

Materials were selected not for trend but for longevity and relevance. Where possible, existing elements were retained or repurposed, anchoring the new design in the building’s history. New finishes were chosen to enhance comfort and durability offering a material richness that felt appropriate to the Northwood brand.

A refined mix of render, soft textiles, and subtle metal detailing brought cohesion and calm. The result is a space that feels elevated yet approachable, professional yet personal.

Outcome

Delivered in under 14 weeks, the transformation of the Northwood HQ is a clear example of what can be achieved with decisive collaboration and clear intent. This is a building that now reflects the values of its occupants quietly confident, welcoming, and ready for the future.

More than just a refurbishment, this was a reawakening an investment not only in architecture but in culture, identity, and the people who bring it to life every day.

" Northwood chose to work with David Byatt on a project to refurbish a 1960's bank which had been allowed to get into a poor state of repair, the initial brief was quite open as we felt Davids understanding of the building was as important as our understanding of the space requirement within the building. We worked closely through the project with David Byatt who attended to most of the day-to-day work throughout the project allowing us to run and focus on our business. Budgets were agreed, plans approved and works complete on time and in budget with limited input from us. All in all, a great service, not the cheapest but absolute value for money for the service received. The result is, we now have the flagship office of a group of 90 offices around the country. "

Steven Swann, Northwood (Stoke on Trent) Ltd