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Watches of Switzerland, London

Client: Aurum Holdings

Architect: Callison

Contractor: Beck Interiors (Regent Street), ISG (Oxford Street)

Value: £6 million (Regent Street), £2.5 million (Oxford Street)

Perega was commissioned as structural engineers and consultants for three Watches of Switzerland showrooms in the UK.

Our engineers were part of the team that delivered Watches of Switzerland’s spectacular flagship store at 155 Regent Street. Described in the press as ‘mind blowing’ and ‘superlative’, the three-storey showroom extends to 17,000 sq. ft. and is reputed to be Europe’s largest store dedicated to luxury watches.

Perega created the detailed design for the striking wraparound feature staircase and, at the back of house, the staircase and lift. Achieving the architect’s aspirations for the staircase was extremely challenging; the marble, glass and metal staircase winds around the circular customer lift while appearing to be free-standing between each level. We also provided consultancy advice for the balustrade and other works, including the shop front.

Following the success of the flagship store, Perega was appointed to further Watches of Switzerland projects: the new showroom at London Heathrow Terminal Five and a second London store on Oxford Street.

On Oxford Street, a tired three-storey building in a prime location opposite Selfridges has been transformed into smart retail space. Formerly occupied by a restaurant and souvenir shop, the old building was extensively altered and modernised over ten months. Perega designed the new replacement first floor and strengthening works; added a new customer lift and feature staircase between the basement and first levels, and created additional floor space by removing the old goods lift and service stairs.

Referring to the Regent Street store, Richard Gerrard, Landmark Programme Director for Aurum Holdings said:

“Perega was involved in the project from the outset as our structural engineer consultants. During what was a very complex and challenging programme to deliver this very special store design, I found Perega’s support consistently invaluable in terms of technical knowledge combined with a very responsive, pragmatic customer-focused approach.”