News / Harbourside
‘Landmark transformation’ of unique building to start soon
When it was built between 1988 and 1991, Canons House was the first structure within what would become the Harbourside development, its distinctive ‘banana’ and ‘doughnut’ buildings marooned amid what was then still a post-industrial wasteland.
A lot has changed since then and now the sprawling site is set for its second act under a new name, Canons Wharf, with planning permission secured for a “landmark transformation” which developers hope will become “a best-in-class workplace and cultural destination”.
If the artist’s impressions from Kinrise and Mactaggart Family & Partners are to be believed, the ground floor of the ‘banana’ overlooking the Lloyds Amphitheatre (named after the building’s previous tenants) will be turned into a number of trendy restaurants, cafes and bars.
Despite the promised “landmark transformation”, most of the current office space will remain as office space – image – Kinrise and Mactaggart Family & Partners
Most of the existing buildings will become office space, but as well as the cafes and restaurants there will also be saunas, a cold plunge pool, gym, PT classes studio, podcast studio and a 200-person auditorium
The site itself is huge: 197,000sq ft; and since 2022 has also been listed by Historic England, who describe it as “a pivotal element within the post-industrial repurposing of Bristol’s docks”.
Canons Wharf made up of the distinctive ‘doughnut’ and ‘banana’ buildings is due to open in 2027 – image: Kinrise and Mactaggart Family & Partners
Kinrise investment director and head of development, Kilian Kleine, said: “Securing planning permission for Canons Wharf is a significant step forward in bringing this exceptional building back to life.
“Our vision is to create a workplace that is not only best-in-class in terms of design and sustainability, but one that genuinely adds to the energy of Bristol’s iconic harbourside.
“By combining architectural design with carefully curated amenities, from social and cultural spaces to wellbeing-led facilities, we are creating a destination where businesses and people can truly thrive.
“Canons Wharf will be a place that reflects Bristol’s ambition, creativity and sense of community, and we’re excited to move into the next phase of delivery.”
A Kinrise spokesperson told Bristol24/7 that a preferred contractor for the development is “in the wings” and the works are expected to begin “imminently”.
A neglected corner of the docks between the Lloyds Amphitheatre and Spitfire will be revitalised as part of the plans for Canons Wharf – photo: Martin Booth
Main image: Kinrise and Mactaggart Family & Partners
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