The Old War Office

A Magnificent Transformation Of London's Old War Office

Originally designed by British architect William Young, the transformation from former Old War Office into The OWO has been overseen by the award-winning EPR Architects. Schlüter-Systems supplied a comprehensive selection of waterproofing solutions.

Originally completed in 1906, the Grade II* listed Old War Office building in London has been closed to the public for more than a century. Arguably best known for being Winston Churchill’s headquarters during World War II, it’s also the location where Ian Fleming was inspired to write James Bond, with several Bond movies also filmed there. It’s now time for the next chapter in the history books of this landmark building, which was originally designed by British architect William Young and is now diligently updated by EPR Architects.

Our vision was to preserve the historical features of The OWO, whilst at the same time creating a contemporary design with modern-day innovations.

Geoff Hull, Director at EPR Architects

Behind the tiles: reliable waterproofing by Schlüter-Systems

The attention to detail and meticulous craftsmanship applied during the transformation required the use of reliable waterproofing materials behind the scenes. Tile and stone protection experts Schlüter-Systems supplied a comprehensive selection of waterproofing solutions.

The OWO Residences by Raffles are designed for grand living and entertaining. Each home is unique with its own distinct personality and style. Inadequate waterproofing in bathrooms and wetrooms can spell disaster so a combination of Schlüter products were chosen, including the waterproofed tile backerboard Schlüter-KERDI-BOARD, to ensure that the extraordinary interiors are protected for years to come. Using a complete waterproofing system from a single manufacturer offers total peace of mind as all of the components are designed to work together effectively.

An iconic building with new-age comfort

Solid stainless steel shower drains were chosen to continue the use of high-quality materials throughout the entire home. Schlüter-KERDI-LINE-D frameless linear drains allow the continuation of the covering material across the entire shower area surface to offer a near-invisible drainage aesthetic.

Ultimate comfort was provided with the use of Schlüter-DITRA-HEAT-E, the electric underfloor heating system that also has uncoupling properties, allowing the substrate and tile or stone covering to move independently of one another. The smart WiFi thermostat Schlüter-DITRA-HEAT-E-R-WIFI allows for ultimate control of the system, via the dedicated Schlüter-HEAT-CONTROL app.

Similar products were used for waterproofing and underfloor heating in London’s first Raffles hotel, both in the 120 bedrooms and suites as well as the spa area, ensuring The OWO remains part of British history for years to come.

The products featured in this reference:

KERDI-BOARD installation substrate in a bathroom with shower, vanity unit and niches

The innovative KERDI-BOARD backerboard can be used to create a waterproof, tileable substrate quickly and easily.

Floor construction in the bathroom with detailed view of the Schlüter-DITRA-HEAT electric heating system

Warm feet guaranteed: The Schlüter-DITRA-HEAT-E electric floor and wall heating system enables precision time control and rapid heating.

The system components are used to drain floor-level showers and custom vanity units intelligently, elegantly and durably.

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Salesroom with three people talking and Schlüter products displayed on both table and walls

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A Magnificent Transformation Of London's Old War Office

Behind the tiles: reliable waterproofing by Schlüter-Systems

An iconic building with new-age comfort

The products featured in this reference:

Schlüter-KERDI-BOARD

Schlüter-DITRA-HEAT-E

Schlüter-KERDI-LINE

These references may also interest you:

The Broadway: luxury flats in the heart of London

The JJ Mack Building

Thornbury Castle

East Quay Pods: new building with creatively designed accommodation

The Petersham Hotel

Adare Manor

The Newt Hotel and Spa

Raffles Hotel

New campus at the University of Wolverhampton

Lympstone Manor

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