Partner Article

Architects to transform historic North Shields pub into new headquarters

An historic pub on North Shields Fish Quay is to be given a new lease of life as architectural firm Blake Hopkinson Architecture unveils plans to turn the 117-year-old Porthole into the growing company’s new commercial headquarters.

Blake Hopkinson Architects has enjoyed a long association with the North Shields Fish Quay.

The firm has been based on the river since partners James Hopkinson and Darren Blake started the business eight years ago.

Following recent growth on the back of a series of successful projects, the firm has taken the decision to seek out larger office space within the vibrant business community on the banks of the river Tyne.

Blake Hopkinson firmly established themselves on the back of a number of successful projects in 2014.

The team were the architects behind the recently completed £10 million large-scale regeneration project to revitalise three residential tower blocks in Billingham on behalf of housing association Thirteen Group.

2015 looks to be an equally strong year as the company starts work on a new £5.5 million scheme to create a series of apartments blocks at Banbury Road Kenton and a £5 million Dementia care centre in Throckley - working in partnership with Your Homes Newcastle and Keepmoat – amongst other projects.

Partner at Blake Hopkinson, Darren Blake, said: “The Fish Quay is steeped in local history and its wonderful character has been an inspiration to our team since day one.

“We were keen to stay in the area but give ourselves more space to grow in offices that reflected our skills and strengths as a business.

“The Porthole pub was built in 1897 and is well-known locally but sadly wasn’t quite drawing in the footfall it once had.

“It made sense to give the grade II listed building a bright new future with a modern makeover to make the most of its wonderful location right on the river.

“We hope to retain the character of the building and add a slice of contemporary design to the exterior with a two-storey glass extension offering what will be stunning views of the river Tyne from a series of side meeting rooms.

“The interior space will also be renovated to reflect a more open plan, modern office facility with opportunities to incorporate the unique pub setting and original features in the final design.”

Partner at Blake Hopkinson, James Hopkinson, said: “The renovation of the Porthole pub to create bespoke offices for Blake Hopkinson is an interesting scheme from a design and build point of view but represents an even more exciting move forward for the business.

“With room to grow and a permanent office base to showcase the design skills of our practice, we are looking forward to bringing the Porthole pub at 11 New Quay back into commercial use by March 2015.”

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