The Old Custom House

The Old Custom House and Marine buildings are Grade II listed and are located at the southern end of the Cardiff Bay Barrage in Penarth.

We worked closely with our client to explore an exciting opportunity to bring the long-derelict Marine Buildings back to beneficial use. This was undertaken alongside extensive refurbishment and change of use of the upper floors of the adjacent Old Custom House. We explored multiple options, including the development of luxurious flats, townhouses and the creation of a destination hotel in this prime location.

We undertook a detailed evaluation of the existing building with the specialist design team to determine the extent of façade to be removed or retained. We worked with the heritage engineers to develop a detailed plan of works for the retention of the historic façade and the demolition of the rear elements without further endangering the building or worker safety.

The existing Marine Building has been derelict and in a poor state of repair for the majority of living memory, while the Old Custom House was restored and extended over twenty years ago and is home to two restaurants.

The preferred option creates a new, lightweight link between the two buildings on the first floor, forming a small-scale boutique hotel accessible via the eastern terraced property. The remaining townhouses would be constructed behind the historic façade and include a rooftop extension and terraced areas to take advantage of the extensive views across Cardiff Bay. New unapologetically townhouses would be added to the western end of the terrace.

The proposals would breathe new life into this well-loved and iconic local landmark.