Bloom has been commissoned to deliver a major retrofit project for Tower Hamlets Council: the transformation of a three-storey 1960s municipal building in Whitechapel into a dedicated Women’s Resource Centre.
This 6,500 sq. ft. 1960s structure has been reimagined as a safe, inclusive, and multifunctional space designed to support, educate, and empower local women. The centre includes a multi-use learning space, an IT suite, on-site childcare, and integrated safeguarding and security systems, making it a truly community-first environment.
A Retrofit-First Approach
The project is being delivered on a fast-track 15-week programme: three weeks of enabling works followed by 12 weeks of intensive fit-out. Works included internal strip-out, asbestos removal, space reconfiguration, new partitions, finishes, HVAC, lighting, fire alarms, and IT/AV infrastructure. Additional safeguarding elements—such as protective screening and radiator casings—were also integrated as part of a thoughtful, people-first design.
From the outset, Bloom’s approach has been grounded in clarity, collaboration, and precision. Early coordination with the client on IT and security systems helps ensure spaces were functional, intuitive, and ready for immediate community use. Close engagement with stakeholders throughout the project enables delivery that is both socially sensitive and technically rigorous.
A Testament to Our Values
While the project is logistically complex and tightly programmed, it reflects Bloom’s core values in action:
- Excellence through high-quality execution, even under time pressure
- Community in delivering a space that will make a tangible, lasting impact
- Shared Success through the collaborative efforts of all project partners
Teamwork That Delivered
Bringing all this together is made possible through the strong partnership between Bloom and the extended consultant team, including:
- Client: Tower Hamlets Council
- Architects: Rivington Street Studio / able partners
- Project Manager: 94Projects
- Cost Consultants: Mizu
- MEP Engineers: Norman Bromley Partnership / Cooper Weston
- AV Consultants: Mix Consultancy
- Structural Engineers: Baker Chatterson / Conisbee
At Bloom, we believe that retrofit is more than just construction—it’s a chance to create spaces that respect history, respond to community needs, and deliver long-term social value. The Women’s Resource Centre is a shining example of that mission in action.
This is retrofitting done right. Read more about this project here.
