Design & build in Clerkenwell
MVV is a design and build contractor working on homes and workspaces across Clerkenwell, in EC1. We design and build refurbishments and conversions with one accountable team, from the first ideas to the finished space. Clerkenwell mixes Georgian terraces and squares with Victorian warehouses, workshops and printworks, many converted into lofts and apartments. It is a neighbourhood of character and creativity, and its buildings reward thoughtful design.
Clerkenwell's buildings and what they need
Residential Clerkenwell includes Georgian terraces around squares such as Myddelton Square and streets like Amwell Street, alongside Victorian industrial buildings converted into loft apartments. Terraced houses have fine proportions but narrow plans and dated services, while warehouse lofts often need better insulation, acoustics and layouts.
Many projects aim to keep the character of exposed brick, timber and iron while making homes warmer, quieter and better organised.
Planning and conservation
Clerkenwell lies within the London Borough of Islington and much of it is covered by conservation areas, with many listed buildings among its Georgian terraces. Listed building consent is needed for works affecting a listed building's character, and external changes, including roof alterations, are carefully controlled.
Flats and lofts have no permitted development rights and usually need the freeholder's consent for alterations. We plan approvals from the start.
The projects we take on in EC1
In Clerkenwell we refurbish Georgian houses and flats, reconfigure warehouse lofts, restore period features, and design kitchens, bathrooms and bespoke joinery. We also fit out commercial and hospitality spaces.
Dense streets and shared buildings mean logistics, protection and working hours are planned carefully before work starts.
Related work across London
Across the river in Borough, we delivered the design and build conversion of an existing building into six flats and a commercial space, adding a roof terrace and a deeper basement and restoring the facade. Our hospitality work includes Enoteca Rosso on Kensington High Street and Kiez in Notting Hill.
The MVV approach
MVV brings design and build under one contract, with a team of 35 designers, builders and project managers and an office in Chiswick. We carry £10M public and employers' liability cover.
What we do in Clerkenwell
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
- Can you improve insulation and acoustics in a warehouse loft?
- Yes. We can upgrade floors, walls, roofs and glazing to improve warmth and reduce noise, choosing methods that keep the loft's character and suit the building's consents.
- Is my Clerkenwell house listed?
- Many Georgian terraces in Clerkenwell are listed and most of the area is within conservation areas. We confirm your property's status and the consents needed at the start of every project.
- Can I add a roof extension in Clerkenwell?
- It depends on the building and the conservation area. Roof alterations are often restricted where rooflines are part of the street's character. We assess feasibility before design is committed.
- Do you fit out commercial and hospitality spaces?
- Yes. We deliver commercial and hospitality fit-outs as well as residential projects.
- How long does a refurbishment take in Clerkenwell?
- It depends on the scope and consents required. We set out a realistic programme in your proposal.