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The Arding & Hobbs building in Battersea is a historic London landmark currently undergoing an extensive restoration to breathe new life into its grand architectural legacy.
Originally built as a department store, the building is being transformed into a high-profile mixed-use development, combining retail, office, and leisure spaces while preserving its distinctive character.
We were proud to contribute to the significant Arding and Hobbs washroom project, delivering commercial washroom solutions that carefully balance the building’s heritage with the needs of a contemporary commercial environment.
Washroom project brief
As part of this iconic project, our washroom design brief was to complement the retro aesthetic envisioned by architects Stiff + Trevillion while integrating smart, touch free technology for a modern user experience.
A key design detail was the use of traditional black taps, reflecting the heritage of the building, alongside advanced infrared technology to meet contemporary expectations for hygiene and accessibility.
Washroom project challenge
Working within the original structure of a historic department store posed several logistical and technical challenges. The building’s old core required careful planning to accommodate services, particularly in the tight ceiling voids and limited access zones.
Our contribution focused on practical, design-conscious solutions that respected the heritage of the building while meeting modern demands.
The Dolphin Solution
The Strataplate wall plate system for Dolphin taps allowed seamless installation in the tight spaces, resolving key access constraints. We also worked closely with the contractors to deliver consistent special finishes across all washroom elements, including DDA compliant washrooms.
In order to meet DDA requirements, we ensured that all Doc M washroom fittings had a consistent and matching finish, which was critical to preserving the design intent across both standard and accessible washrooms.
In the end-of-trip facilities, elongated commercial taps were specified to suit bespoke washbasins, adding another layer of custom detail to the Arding and Hobbs washroom project.
Commercial washroom Products
- Dolphin Doc M Pack including grab rails
- Touch Free Dolphin Taps
- Dolphin Shower Sets
- Dolphin Paper Towel Dispensers
- Dolphin Dispensers
And a wide range of other commercial washroom products featured in the superloos!
The washroom project result
The completed Arding & Hobbs washroom project is a striking example of how heritage and innovation can be combined within a commercial refurbishment.
The result is a high-spec, visually cohesive commercial washroom that respects the building’s historic character while delivering a clean, efficient, and touch free user experience.
This prestigious project enhances the standing of one of Battersea’s most recognisable buildings and sets a benchmark for integrating SMART washroom technology into heritage-led environments.
Be inspired by Dolphin washrooms.
- Sector
- Commercial
- Location
- London
- Architect
- Stiff + Trevillion
