According to plans submitted by the Palladium Group and designed by Socrates Architects, Church House – later known as Norwich Union House has now fallen into disrepair after being left abandoned for over a decade.
It is now hoped that the building’s striking external concrete elements can be restored and its severely corroded windows replaced. Architects are also planning to install solar panels, thermally efficient glazing and a new fully integrated stairlift to enable disabled access.
The building – a Grade 4 listed Brutalist structure – is being renamed Capital House and is due to continue functioning as an office.
‘We envisage modern upgrades that sensitively reflect its listed-building status, with a cutting-edge fully integrated access system for the disabled,’ Nick Socrates, of St Helier-based Socrates Architects, said.
‘The plans will bring a prominent local building that has been lying empty and in a state of disrepair for more than ten years back into use and fit for purpose. The building is very unique in its design and is located very prominently in St Helier – right next to the Royal Square and the town churchyard.’
Church House was built in 1969 and designed by Taylor Leapingwell Architects, who took inspiration from the Grade 2 listed Brutalist-style Economist building on St James Street in London.
Brutalist-style buildings are known for their ‘massive, monolithic and blocky’ appearance and use of poured concrete.
Mr Socrates added: ‘This is a unique opportunity to refurbish the existing building to safeguard its future, while providing contemporary, high-quality office-led accommodation. The scheme proposes significant restoration works externally which will create improved activation at churchyard and street levels, leading to significant improvements to the public realm and street scene.’
A decision on the application is expected within three months, with construction due to take six months to complete.
