Zodiac House Retrofitted Balconies

Zodiac House Retrofitted Balconies

The Zodiac development in Broad Green, Croydon, is a transformative project that breathes new life into a 1960s brutalist office and residential complex. Led by Common Projects, the scheme repurposes the long-vacant Zodiac Court into 78 new homes, a community-owned common, and new retail spaces. Additionally, a key element of the project is the refurbishment of a historic pavilion, which will be repurposed as a café serving the local community. The development has been shortlisted for the New London Awards 2023 in the Retrofit category, emphasising its innovative approach to sustainability and community engagement.
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Project Breakdown

Zodiac Court, once a symbol of Croydon’s brutalist architecture, has been vacant for decades. The office block, disused since the 1960s, and the residential tower, known as Zodiac House, had fallen into disrepair. However, the development avoids the environmental impact of demolition by retaining the existing concrete structure and revitalising it into modern apartments. A standout feature of this transformation is the use of balconies and outdoor spaces, which enhance the connection between residents and the surrounding community.

The Solution

The Zodiac redevelopment focuses on sustainability by retaining the original concrete structure, reducing its carbon footprint—the equivalent of planting 120,000 trees. Architects shedKM transformed the vacant office space and upgraded the residential tower into 78 new homes, shops, and shared spaces. EnviroBuild’s Pro-grip Aluminium Decking was chosen for the balconies, complementing the brutalist design with a durable, fire-rated solution that enhances outdoor areas.

The project also includes a community-owned green space with a pavilion café, developed in partnership with Big Local Broad Green, promoting local engagement and environmental goals. Zodiac is a prime example of how retrofitting and sustainable products can achieve both environmental and community benefits.

Project Details

Size: 100 sqm

Product: Pro-grip Aluminium Decking in Anthracite Grey

Substructure: Aluminium Joists & Mesa Steel Pedestals

Client: ARJ Construction

Main Contractor: ARJ Construction

Architect: Shedkm

Location: Croydon, London