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A flagship CAT A+ workspace delivered in one of Bristol’s most iconic neighbourhoods.

Located on the waterfront in central Bristol, Wapping Wharf attracts people from all over the city and further afield. Widely known for its collection of independent businesses, some housed in shipping containers, it quickly established itself as a go-to location through powerful placemaking.

At CARGO Work, Umberslade were looking to provide a modern high-quality office space that would appeal to tenants, with bespoke finishes and creative detailing. Initially designed by Alec French Architects and Simple Simon, Interaction were appointed to deliver this unique CAT A+ fit-out in this sought-after location.

Undertaking a Detail and Build project like CARGO Work requires a certain type of collaboration between contractors and suppliers – luckily, We Prize Partnerships. Our design team transform the initial design concepts into a functional workspace through detailed designs which inform future stages like procurement, construction and project management. Attention to detail is second-to-none here for accuracy, cost optimisation, coordination, quality control and an efficient construction process. The execution of these technical designs lays the foundation of a successful build project.

As the first office space to launch in this mixed-use development, Umberslade have gone above and beyond to bring something entirely different to the Bristol office market.

Umberslade are a forward-thinking business and they have created something really different in a much-loved part of Bristol. Partnering with them to deliver this high-end, CAT A office space, and enabling them to bring something different to the Bristol market has been a very exciting project.

Hayley Blacker
Director

High-spec and bespoke

In keeping with local surroundings

The striking 20,000 sq ft development is spread across four floors. We adopted a top-down approach to the building transforming the space, building the core, installing high-spec toilets and stairwell.

Naturally the design of CARGO Work is in keeping with its surroundings and its industrial dockside setting. This distinctive shipping container design is brought through by the internal elements such as bespoke pigeon blue and red oxide cedar cladding.

Creating the technical designs is a rigorous process which ties together all the bespoke finishes and detailing needed to complete the build. CARGO Work has a plethora of unique finishes and detailing, for example in the stairwell the black and steel balustrade and high-quality oak flooring which needed to align perfectly.

Beyond design partners and aesthetics, we worked closely with leading engineering firm Hoare Lea to seamlessly coordinate the mechanical and electrical design for the building services.

The floorplates are flooded with natural light, with views across Bristol from all angles.

Flourishing local community

Live, eat, play – and now work.

CARGO Work offers complete flexibility to tenants, built with the future in mind. The five large Grade A office spaces are available in various configuations through a demise split depending on market demands.

As a forward-thinking developer, Umberslade recognised the need to bring the outside in. Each workspace is flooded with natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows, with access to private balconies or terraces and the top floors benefit from stunning views across Bristol. This is a sure-fire way to improve employee wellbeing.

Overall, CARGO Work has been designed to be highly sustainable and low energy in use. During the project we opted for natural timber, LED lighting throughout and tenants will benefit from e-parking, solar panels and brise soleil.

Umberslade’s progressive and independently-minded approach to placemaking at Wapping Wharf has established a vibrant and flourishing local community. Any business choosing CARGO Work as their home will be able to enjoy some of Bristol’s best food, drink and entertainment right on the doorstep of their stylish and sustainable workspace.

Red oxide cedar cladding brings Wapping Wharf’s industrial design through to the core of the space.

Powerful placemaking

Harbouring ambition

Working closely with Umberslade and their design partners, we successfully transformed their designs into reality to create a stand-out place to work. This striking new development will house some of Bristol’s most ambitious businesses.

Time to revolutionise your workplace?

We’d love to hear your plans. Get in touch with Charlie to see how we can bring them to life