Matthew Lloyd Architects were appointed in 2020 to undertake the refurbishment and retrofit of the historic Alford House Club building along with exploring the future use of the adjacent northern site as an enabling residential development. Alford House was founded in 1884 and has been providing invaluable youth services to Lambeth ever since. The current club building has been occupied by the charity since 1950, having been repaired and remodelled following extensive damage during the second world war.

Phase 1 of the retrofit and refurbishment of the building was completed in 2024. The first phase secures the historic fabric of the locally listed portion of the site and provides restored and reimagined spaces for both young people and commercial theatre rentals. The newly completed spaces include the revealing of the historic grand hall, provision of a new dedicated dance studio, a theatre breakout space to support lettings, and greatly improved WC facilities.

A raft of vital external conservation work was carried out, including reinstatement of slate roofing, refurbishment and upgrade of the existing timber windows to include vacuum glass, and targeted masonry repairs. A consistent approach has been taken to the interiors with an aim to uncover, celebrate, and enhance the historic features of the building. Where interventions were made they were designed to sit honestly within the grain of the retained fabric.

Phase 2 of the project is currently under development and is due to commence on site in Summer 2025.