Downstairs at dMFK
Downstairs at dMFK transforms a Fitzrovia basement into a flexible workspace and Materials Lab, combining adaptable furniture, lighting, and zones for work, events, and material exploration.
Downstairs at dMFK
At 76 Charlotte Street, dMFK Architects has transformed a previously dark basement into Downstairs at dMFK, a 2,000sq ft flexible space beneath its award-winning Fitzrovia office. The basement brings together work, events, exhibitions and hospitality, supporting creativity, collaboration and material exploration.
Formerly a Channel Four recording studio, the space was activated as a more “analogue” counterpart to the technical working environment upstairs. The space was designed to explore and showcase innovative products while strengthening working relationships with suppliers. In collaboration with the twentytwentyone Contracts team, the space features furniture and lighting selected for its tactile quality and non-office feel.
A key challenge was introducing light into the basement. Accessed via a stairwell from street level, visitors descend into a calm setting away from the bustle of the street. By replacing the front wall with large areas of glazing and layering ceiling and task lighting throughout, the space now feels open and welcoming.
The open floor is arranged into flexible zones, including four Eiermann 1 desks with HAG Tion 2160 chairs and Anglepoise Type 75 Margaret Howell desk lamps provide soft task lighting and subtle colour. At the rear of the plan sits the Materials Lab, anchored by a generous terrazzo counter that supports material sampling and doubles as a bar for events.
In the main space, a long ash wood Basic table by Finnish brand Nikari with Harbour chairs extends for workshops or dinners. It is softly lit with Hotaru Double Bubble pendants and Wastberg Faro portable lights. The table can be easily collapsed and stored away, allowing the practice to transform the space for larger social events.
A relaxed seating area hosts a rotating display of furniture curated quarterly by twentytwentyone, including William Plunkett’s Kingston chair and daybed, the Selsdon coffee table, a Woodnotes Willow rug, and Michael Anastassiades’ OWKS floor light.
Two private meeting rooms feature a bespoke Nikari Basic table and a Muuto Soft table, both with Eames DSR chairs in coloured recycled plastic.
Downstairs at dMFK combines adaptable furniture and lighting with a thoughtful layout, allowing the space to accommodate work, gatherings and informal moments. The result is an environment that feels welcoming and sits comfortably between the character of a workplace and the atmosphere of a home.
Architect
dMFK Architects
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Photographer
Ed Reeve
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Location
76 Charlotte Street, London
Year
2025
