Case Study: Rum Runner Works Fit-Out | Historic Music Venue

Location: Rum Runner Works, Birmingham UK

Project Duration: 8 Weeks

Project Type: Office and Podcast Fit-Out

A modern, multi-level building with glass walls and metal siding, with the words 'RUM RUNNER WORKS' displayed on the side. The building is lit up in the evening, with string lights hanging above it. There are stairs and a parking lot in the foreground, and neighboring buildings and a chimney in the background.

Project Overview:

Project Scope:

To create a functional and future-ready workspace, the fit-out included:

  • Meeting Rooms & Podcast Studios: Custom-built meeting spaces and podcast rooms equipped with advanced acoustic treatments and cutting-edge technology.

  • Heritage-Preserving Design: Integrated modern office features while maintaining the building’s original architectural elements and character.

  • Tea Points & Break Areas: Renovated tea points to provide a stylish and comfortable space for employees.

  • Flooring & Decoration: Upgraded flooring with high-quality, durable materials that complement the historic aesthetic, alongside fresh decoration to enhance the workspace ambiance.

  • Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) Upgrades: Updated M&E systems to support modern office requirements, ensuring energy efficiency and compliance with safety regulations.

  • Blinds & Manifestation: Installed custom blinds and glass manifestations to balance natural light, privacy, and design aesthetics.

Our client sought to transform the historic Rum Runner Works into a modern office space for their R&D Technology team, incorporating state-of-the-art meeting rooms and podcasting spaces while preserving the venue’s rich heritage. Evolving Spaces Ltd was entrusted with delivering a high-quality fit-out that seamlessly blended contemporary workplace design with the building’s storied past—all within an accelerated 8-week timeline.

Key Challenges & Solutions:

Blending Innovation with Heritage:

  • Designed meeting and podcasting spaces that met modern acoustic and technological needs without disrupting the venue’s historical significance.

    Fast-Track Project Timeline:

  • Pre-planned procurement and efficient coordination of trades ensured completion within 8 weeks.
    Acoustic & Technical Requirements:

  • Installed high-performance soundproofing in podcast studios and meeting rooms, creating optimal environments for recording and collaboration.

Key Achievements:

A Future-Proof R&D Hub: Delivered a cutting-edge workspace tailored to the client's technology-driven operations.
Successful Heritage Integration: Preserved the essence of Rum Runner Works while modernizing the space for today’s workforce.
Seamless Delivery in Record Time: Completed the fit-out on schedule, allowing the team to transition smoothly into their new space.

Conclusion:

The Rum Runner Works fit-out demonstrates Evolving Spaces Ltd’s expertise in transforming historic buildings into high-tech, functional workplaces. By balancing innovation with tradition, we created an inspiring R&D office space that enhances collaboration, creativity, and productivity—all within a landmark venue.

Client Feedback

Thank you so much to you and your team for the incredible work you have done on our new office space- its everything I envisioned.

I really appreciate you getting everything completed in scope of our time restrictions!

 

At Evolving Spaces Ltd., we're committed to transforming commercial spaces into attractive, functional environments that captivate potential tenants. Our CAT A fit-out services are designed to simplify the process for landlords, ensuring your property is not just ready for the market but stands out in it. Connect with us today at estimating@evolving-spaces.com to discover how we can elevate your property and enhance its appeal to prospective tenants.

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Comprehensive Fit-Out Services by Evolving Spaces Ltd.

  • Modern, minimalist interior with a staircase featuring wooden steps, white walls, large glass windows, and natural light.

    CAT A Fit-Out for Landlords.

    Evolving Spaces Ltd. specializes in CAT A fit-outs, preparing your property for the market with a comprehensive suite of services. From essential mechanical and electrical services to the installation of flooring, ceilings, and fire detection systems, we ensure your space is impeccably finished and market-ready. Our expertise guarantees a seamless process, making your property attractive to potential tenants.

  • Modern interior space with wooden wall, framed artwork, blue cushioned seating, potted plants, and large windows allowing natural light.

    Tailored CAT B Fit-Out for Tenants.

    For tenants gearing up to occupy a new space, our CAT B fit-out service is designed to meet your specific needs. We focus on creating a workspace that not only looks great but also enhances your operational efficiency. Our team works closely with you to incorporate aesthetic elements, install furniture, and design collaborative zones, ensuring the final space mirrors your company's culture and brand identity perfectly.

  • Modern lobby with beige marble tile flooring, wooden wall panels, a reception desk, and seating area with black and red chairs near windows.

    Shell & Core Development.

    At the heart of any office revamp, the shell & core phase involves the construction of fundamental building elements. Evolving Spaces Ltd. takes charge of developing structures, base works, and core amenities including lifts, communal washrooms, and main entrances. Our coordination ensures that your space is not only safe and functional but also built to last.

  • Empty room with large windows, unfinished floor, and ceiling tiles with ventilation grilles.

    Dilapidation Services

    Facing dilapidations can be daunting for tenants nearing the end of a lease. Whether it's at the landlord's behest during or at lease end, Evolving Spaces Ltd. delivers swift and efficient dilapidation services. Our aim is to alleviate the burden, allowing you to transition smoothly to your next venture without undue stress.

  • Empty office room with white desks, black chairs, windows, and modern ceiling lights, viewed through a glass door.

    CAT A+

    Landlords looking to provide a turnkey office solution will find our CAT A+ service invaluable. We combine our design acumen with a selection of ready-to-use office furniture to create spaces that are truly "plug and play." This service ensures tenants can commence their operations immediately, free from the hassle of managing a fit-out project.

  • Modern indoor space with large windows, green plants, and colorful decor, including a chess set on a white table and various seating options.

    Co-working / Shared workspaces

    As the landscape of work shifts towards a hybrid model, co-working and shared office spaces emerge as an optimal solution not only for entrepreneurial startups but also for larger corporations looking to reduce overheads through downsizing their office space. At Evolving Spaces, we've successfully fitted out numerous co-working and shared workspaces, recognizing the critical role of acoustics and the adaptability of partitioning in such evolving environments. Our proficiency at Evolving Spaces is in developing state-of-the-art co-working spaces tailored to meet both the evolving market demands and budgetary considerations