If we said that we were going to take a closer look at an architectural project being undertaken by tech giant Apple we’d expect most would assume that it was the new headquarters in California that was our subject. Although the construction of that building is impressive and quite remarkable to follow, it’s a project of theirs rather closer to home that we’d like to look at and draw some insights from.

During the course of the last few weeks it was announced that Apple would be taking over six floors of the renovated Battersea Power Station, establishing this as their new London base. At present the move is anticipated to be complete by 2021, and will see Apple hold some 40% of the Battersea property.

Although you could easily argue that anything related to Apple is big news, what’s interesting to us as an architect serving London is the different dynamics used by the company. They clearly have the flexibility to take the most informed approach possible in respect of building and architectural requirements. We would shudder to think, for example, of just how high the land costs alone would be if Apple were to try and build an entirely new building in the capital, as is the case with their Californian project.

There are, if we’re honest, not too many companies in the world that would readily compare their situation with Apple. In this case, however, the decision made about using an existing building in London is one that a number of businesses and commercial concerns can take cognisance of. From a practical and cost perspective, it is often far wiser to renovate and change what you have than it is to start off from square one.

One thing we’ve always said about buildings is don’t think about the rooms it has, think about the space potential it offers. We have been proud to be involved in a number of architectural projects which have transformed buildings in order to meet new requirements. These have included both commercial and residential needs.

When Apple makes a change or decision, it’s fair to say that most in the industry take note and follow suit. Whilst they are not quite setting a trend by moving into an existing building, the company is highlighting the benefit of renovation over new construction in respect of London architecture.