Vivienne Westwood Secures Approval for Major Battersea Headquarters Expansion
Wandsworth Council has granted planning permission for a significant extension to Vivienne Westwood's headquarters in Battersea, South London. The fashion brand's iconic tartan designs will inspire the new building, ensuring the company can continue its operations from its long-term home without relocation.
Preserving a Fashion Legacy in Battersea
The approved scheme involves modernising and extending two existing buildings on Elcho Street and Howie Street. Vivienne Westwood has been based in Battersea since 1995, and this redevelopment will allow the brand to consolidate all departments under one roof. The central and northern sections of the Elcho Street building will be extended by four and eight storeys respectively, while the front of the Howie Street building will gain two additional storeys.
This ambitious project will create a new headquarters reaching up to ten storeys in height, featuring architectural elements that pay homage to the company's famous tartan patterns. The design aims to project a strong, forward-looking image for the internationally recognised fashion house.
Addressing Growth and Sustainability Concerns
A council report highlighted that the current headquarters had become "cramped, confined and ill-serve the company" in its efforts to attract investment and high-calibre staff. The expansion will provide essential space for expected growth over the next fifteen years, accommodating studios, couture facilities, administration offices, private fitting areas, meeting rooms, and storage.
The development will include a new basement to house Vivienne Westwood's archives, with ground floor reception areas and a roof terrace for employee use. Importantly, the scheme retains as much of the existing structures as possible, with only partial demolition required, aligning with sustainability objectives praised by local councillors.
Local Support and Community Considerations
Wandsworth Council's Planning Committee approved the application on January 20th, with councillors expressing overall support despite some reservations about potential overlooking of neighbouring properties. Labour Councillor Finna Ayres described it as "a creative use in a creative area of Battersea", while Labour Councillor Sara Apps welcomed the economic benefits of keeping the headquarters local.
The phased construction approach will enable Vivienne Westwood to maintain operations throughout the works. The development is expected to strengthen existing local business, community, and educational networks within what is increasingly known as the Battersea Design Quarter.
This expansion represents a significant commitment by Vivienne Westwood to its South London roots while preparing for future international growth and maintaining its distinctive brand identity through innovative architectural design.
