Willmott Dixon Interiors will finalise Stage 3 and 4 design for a refurbishment for the London Fire Brigade (LFB) at 8 Albert Embankment.
The Grade II Listed building was LFB headquarters from its opening in 1937 until 2007, when the brigade relocated to Union Street in Southwark, although Lambeth Fire Station continued to operate from the building.
Now it is to be brought up to modern standards 鈥� while retaining original Art Deco features 鈥� and will once more LFB headquarters.
Work to be done includes new plumbing and wiring, new windows and a new roof. A 1980s extension to the original building (formerly a control room) will be re-clad. New passenger lifts, partitions, ceilings, joinery and finishes will be installed throughout, along with a full refurbishment of the appliance bays and basement area.
Located on the ground to second floors, Lambeth Fire Station will temporarily vacate during construction, which is expected to start in mid 2027. Provision will be made to maintain operational support for the nearby Lambeth river fire station on the Thames. There will be a new space for events and exhibitions on the ground floor.
London Fire Brigade assistant director of property and technical services Laura Birnbaum said: 鈥淭his is a once-in-a-generation project for London Fire Brigade as we return to our historic headquarters in the heart of the capital. We are confident that partnering with such an experienced team will create a facility that supports our mission to serve and protect London for decades to come.鈥�
Willmott Dixon Interiors project director Rob Brown said: 鈥淚t is a privilege to work with London Fire Brigade to develop their proposals into what will be a major refurbishment of their previous, historic headquarters. We鈥檙e focused on designing a facility that is fit-for-purpose while respecting the building鈥檚 heritage and balancing the infrastructure and flexibility needed to support the Brigade鈥檚 vital work for years and generations to come. Our collaborative approach will ensure we work closely with the London Fire Brigade and its stakeholders to bring them a new home right in the centre of London.鈥�