Studio Egret West has breathed new life into the Grade II*-listed Balfron Tower in East London.

Ernö Goldfinger’s brutalist 27-storey tower was originally built between 1965 and 1967 for the Greater London Council.

Guided by Goldfinger’s original vision, Studio Egret West collaborated with Historic England for the tower's ‘conservation informed’ restoration.

Energy-efficiency was key to the project. The exposed concrete structure received internal treatments such as a breathable waterproof cementitious coating, while Aerogel at critical glazing interfaces aimed to eliminate cold bridging.

Other new features at Balfron Tower include enhanced windows with superior acoustics, thermal reflection and integrated nighttime cooling panels for each bedroom.

This project has been longlisted in the heritage project category of Dezeen Awards 2023.

Studio: Studio Egret West
Project: Balfron Tower
Credits: Ab Rogers Design