Historic Meets Modern in Daytrip’s Cloisters Workspace

Design studio Daytrip has completed the first phase of Cloisters, a 3,000-square-metre office and workspace in east London, where the character of a former school has been reimagined as an elevated contemporary warehouse. The project combines historic detailing with a refined, modern sensibility that celebrates both the building’s past and its renewed function.

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Located near the Old Street roundabout, the heritage-listed Cloisters complex comprises several interconnected buildings arranged around a central courtyard. Daytrip’s design introduces a new entrance, reception, offices and circulation spaces while maintaining key historical elements, including restored 17th- and 18th-century Stuart-era doors. These doors set the tone for the interior palette, inspiring the studio’s use of warm caramel and umber tones that echo the Victorian-era glazed tiles uncovered during the renovation.

“The palette was understated yet purposeful,” said Daytrip’s co-founder, Emma Halstead. “Warm tones echo the building’s historic elements, while darker umber shades on tabletops foster calm and focus, drawing the eye toward the garden’s greenery.” Natural materials such as wood, leather and stone further contribute to the inviting and tactile atmosphere.

In the reception, the studio contrasts these rich textures with contemporary furnishings by French designer Philippe Malouin. His geometric chairs, upholstered in burgundy and aqua, bring a crisp modernity to the space, balanced by the patina of the historic timber doors and a rustic wooden coffee table.

Colour also plays a central role in uniting the interior. “Carefully curated bursts of colour in the artworks add interest and definition without disrupting the refined minimalism of the overall scheme,” added co-founder James Potter. Subtle moments of aqua, green and vivid pink punctuate the warm interior, defining zones while reinforcing a connection to the natural world.

Blending historic character with modern craftsmanship, Daytrip’s Cloisters workspace offers a thoughtful evolution of a storied building, providing an inspiring and serene environment for contemporary work.

Images by Simon Bevan via Dezeen

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