Domus Campus

Adaptive reuse project for Domus Tiles linking a series of interconnected buildings to create a dynamic, multifunctional hub blending retail, workspace, and event spaces in Clerkenwell.

Clerkenwell / London

Retail / Commercial

Domus Campus, located in the heart of Clerkenwell, redefines what a commercial space can be through a seamless blend of functionality, sustainability, and innovative design. The flagship hub for Domus Tiles consolidates multiple functions into a single, dynamic environment, including product showcase areas, galleries, flexible working spaces, and event venues. Mailen Design’s retrofit approach transformed a series of previously disconnected buildings into a cohesive and welcoming space that reflects Domus’ brand values while addressing the needs of both staff and visitors. This project exemplifies our expertise in adaptive reuse and sustainable design, creating a destination that fosters collaboration, creativity, and engagement.

A detailed shot of the main showroom area, featuring bespoke design elements, such as the custom terracotta chandelier.

The showroom’s rich materiality, including the custom terracotta chandelier, showcases Domus’ commitment to craftsmanship.

The exterior courtyard, designed for both social and functional events, offers a flexible outdoor space that connects seamlessly with the interior.

The courtyard at Domus Campus provides a dynamic space for both informal gatherings and events, enhancing social interaction.

A view of the bar area and social space, blending seamlessly with the tile showroom to create a multifunctional environment.

The bar and social space doubles as a tile showroom, reflecting the flexible, multifunctional design of Domus Campus.

A view of the flexible workspaces and the exposed steel and terrazzo staircase, linking the different zones of Domus Campus.

The exposed steel and terrazzo staircase connects the workspaces, creating a seamless flow between the diverse areas of Domus Campus.

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Project highlights

At a glance

Design philosophy

We designed Domus Campus as a flexible, multi-use space that seamlessly adapts to the evolving needs of Domus’ business. The layout encourages fluid transitions between product displays, coworking areas, and event spaces, creating a dynamic environment for both staff and visitors. Our deliberate focus on materiality sets the campus apart from other commercial spaces, featuring natural tones and textures that enhance the space’s rich, tactile quality. Bespoke features, such as the exposed steel and terrazzo staircases, unite previously disconnected buildings, providing a cohesive architectural thread that fosters engagement and collaboration. The adaptable nature of the design allows the campus to transform quickly, from a workspace to an event venue, all while maintaining a welcoming and innovative atmosphere.

Sustainability

Sustainability was a driving force behind the Domus Campus design. The decision to repurpose existing structures rather than opting for demolition significantly reduced the environmental impact whilst preserving the architectural heritage of the buildings. We introduced energy-efficient solutions such as a highly efficient air temperature control system, self-closing doors to prevent energy leakage, and low-energy LED lighting. Our material selection was meticulous, focussing on environmentally responsible options that offered enhanced energy performance, such as tiles made from recycled quarry waste and reclaimed oak flooring. As a result of these efforts, Domus Campus recorded a post-occupation energy use of 242 kWh/m² per year, surpassing initial targets.

Challenges and solutions

Connecting the dense configuration of existing buildings into a cohesive workspace was considerably more challenging than a new build. We overcame this by reconfiguring the layout and linking the spaces with exposed steel and terrazzo staircases, ensuring seamless flow. A further challenge was meeting the growing demands of the ‘hotelification’ of workspaces, where environments must now adapt to both work and social functions. The flexible design allows Domus Campus to transform easily between offices, showrooms, and event venues, accommodating diverse needs like material research, social gatherings, and sales activities. This multifunctional approach maximised the space's utility, ensuring it remains dynamic and responsive to the evolving nature of today’s workplace.

Outcome

Domus Campus has successfully transformed into a vibrant and multifunctional hub, embodying both the aesthetic and functional goals set out by the client. Its innovative design has created a space that not only meets the practical needs of Domus but also enhances social interaction and creativity. The adaptability of the campus allows it to serve as a product showroom, workspace, and event venue, while the thoughtful use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient solutions ensures long-term environmental performance. Domus Campus has set a new benchmark for commercial retrofit projects, demonstrating the power of adaptive reuse in creating spaces that are both dynamic and sustainable.

Awards

From the client

"Working with architects and designers who understand the Domus brand whilst advancing the boundaries of creativity is essential for us. Through this close project collaboration with Mailen Design, we are now able to offer clients Domus’ diverse material portfolio within a unique and imaginative showroom environment."

Jon Newey

Chief Executive, Domus

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