The Piano Building

Project Overview

ONE’s design respects the building’s heritage, retaining its distinctive curved façade, which resembles a grand piano from above, while incorporating contemporary features such as entertainment spaces.

The cohesive design links indoor and outdoor areas, with an enhanced public realm inspired by piano keys. Silver and dark grey paving, laid in twos and threes, reflects the building’s heritage. A performance stage, integrated seating, and lighting help to establish a dynamic community space for events.

The redevelopment includes co-working and hybrid workspaces, entertainment venues, and ground-floor restaurants. Interior upgrades feature a new entrance, modern M&E systems – including ventilation and LED lighting, and an industrial aesthetic with exposed brick and structural elements.

Several challenges were addressed. These included: leaking roofs on both the existing extension and listed building, structural issues with cracked concrete slabs, and drainage problems, which were resolved by ONE’s in-house engineering teams. The building’s canal-side location required measures to deter anti-social behaviour, such as enhanced visibility and upgraded glazing, which were incorporated into the design.

Environmental considerations were central to the design. With the canal designated as a wildlife corridor and bat presence identified, tree planting and habitat-sensitive measures were incorporated. The third floor offers enhanced views of the canal to strengthen the connection with nature, and internal walls were removed to improve sightlines from the older building.

Funded through the Government’s Levelling Up Fund (LUF), this project marks a significant regeneration of a central Kidderminster site, preserving its historic character while introducing modern elements to boost footfall and encourage wider investment.