Bristol Rejuvenation

Led by First Base, the project includes the restoration of the Grade II-listed Soapworks building alongside two new buildings. Complementing the historic character of Old Market, the development is centred around more than 165,000 square feet of existing buildings. Dating back to the 1860s, the principal building originally served as the headquarters of Christopher Thomas & Brothers, a soap and candle company, before being acquired by Gardiner Haskins, Bristol’s largest independent department store, in 1958. Inspired by Florence’s historic Palazzo Vecchio, the landmark most recently operated as a Gardiner Haskins showroom.

Woods Bagot was appointed lead designer for the regeneration scheme, with a focus on bringing the historic building back into active use while establishing a new mixed-use district that responds to Bristol’s evolving urban character. With limited public realm across the site, the design introduces new pedestrian connections and shared spaces that improve permeability and create stronger links between Temple Quay, Old Market and the city centre.

The project seeks to carefully restore a significant heritage asset while introducing contemporary buildings that contribute positively to the surrounding context and support the long-term regeneration of this part of Bristol.