Case Studies
Muswell Hill Broadway: A Sustainable Retrofit Flooring Project for a 1970s Commercial Space
Overview
The transformation of a tired 1970s Woolworths store on Muswell Hill Broadway into a vibrant, mixed-use development is a standout sustainable retrofit flooring project. This award-nominated scheme, led by Crawford Partnership for Imrose Properties, showcases how modern architecture and high-performance materials, like Impervia engineered wood flooring, can revitalise older buildings into stylish, sustainable spaces built to last.
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Project Type | Sustainable Retrofit Flooring |
| Location | Muswell Hill Broadway, North London |
| Sector | Mixed-Use Development |
| Building History | 1970s Woolworths Commercial Unit |
| Development Outcome | Ground floor Aldi supermarket with 7 apartments |
| Flooring Product Used | Impervia Plank Format – French Grey & Bare Timber |
| Sustainability Focus | Low-carbon refurb, air-source heat pumps, insulation |
Why Our Flooring Was Chosen
The project brief called for interiors that were not only visually impressive but also aligned with the development’s sustainability goals. Our Impervia engineered wood flooring was selected for its:
- Sustainably Sourced Materials – Responsibly harvested wood aligned with eco-credentials.
- Elegant, Natural Aesthetic – Enhancing the contemporary design with warmth and texture.
- Durability – Engineered to perform in high-quality residential environments.
- Low Maintenance – Ideal for busy urban lifestyles and long-term use.
Two finishes were specified: French Grey and Bare Timber. Both offer timeless appeal and help create calm, characterful living spaces.
Sustainability at the Core
A key objective was to reduce the carbon impact of the build. Instead of demolishing and starting anew, the design retained and reinforced the existing structure, preserving the embodied carbon already within the building.
Environmental innovations included:
- High-performance insulation and energy-efficient windows
- Air-source heat pumps for low-carbon heating and cooling
- Low-impact interior materials, including our sustainable wood flooring
Our contribution helped meet the project’s low-energy goals while supporting the broader ethos of responsible regeneration.
Overcoming Challenges
Transforming an outdated commercial unit into contemporary apartments posed several hurdles:
- Structural Reinforcement: Upgrading the original framework to support upper-storey residential units.
- Material Standards: Every component, flooring included, had to meet exacting environmental and performance specifications.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: The project navigated pandemic-related issues with flexibility and collaborative problem-solving.
Despite these obstacles, the outcome is a polished and resilient development, ready for modern urban living.
Design Recognition
“We’re proud to share that the Muswell Hill Broadway project is a finalist in the SBID 2025 Interior Design Awards, in the Residential Budget Up to £50,000 category.”
— Alan Crawford, Managing Director, Crawford Partnership
The recognition reflects the quality of the collaboration between stakeholders and the thoughtful product selections, including Impervia flooring.
🎧 Listen to the story behind the project:
Podcast: Muswell Hill Broadway Regeneration
Expert Insight
“We’ve been working with Crawford Partnership since 2012 and have now completed over 30 projects together. It’s a testament to their vision and attention to detail that this scheme has been shortlisted for such a prestigious design award. Collaborating on projects like this allows us to push the boundaries of sustainable flooring innovation while supporting architects who truly understand the value of quality materials.”
Martyn Ryder, CEO, The Solid Wood Flooring Company
External of Muswell Hill Broadway: A Sustainable Retrofit Flooring Project
Explore Impervia for Your Project
Whether you’re renovating heritage properties or developing new builds, Impervia’s premium engineered flooring offers performance, sustainability, and refined design.
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