Mondrian Shoreditch.
Since the Mondrian Shoreditch London hotel’s acquisition by the Reuben Brothers in 2020, the property has undergone a dramatic renovation, becoming a destination where contemporary luxury meets the artistic energy of Shoreditch.
Throughout this project, CDC Engineering worked closely with Goddard Littlefair design team to manufacture and install a variety of architectural metalwork features. Copper played a central role in the design narrative, and our ability to create bespoke finishes entirely in house allowed us to deliver the precise aesthetic and atmosphere envisioned by the designers.
The interior concept relied heavily on copper’s ability to bring warmth, brightness, and a playful sense of reflection into the spaces. To achieve this, each area of the hotel required a distinct copper finish, ranging from deep, aged surfaces to vibrant polished tones. Because CDC Engineering develops all finishes internally—including acid etching, patination, antiquing, and protective lacquering—we were able to respond directly to the designers’ requirements, refining tones, textures and reflectivity until the exact look was achieved.
With many years of experience working with metal finishes, our workshop is designed to give architects and designers full creative control. Every finish can be prototyped, adjusted, and perfected on site, ensuring consistency and high performance in the final installation.
Upon entering the hotel, guests are greeted by an installation of aged antique mottled copper that forms the backdrop to the reception desk. This finish continues around the lift surrounds, creating a cohesive and atmospheric first impression. The designers asked for a darker, richer tone that would anchor the space, while still offering a gentle reflective quality. By applying a lacquered topcoat, we were able to introduce a subtle play of light across the surface, enhancing the lobby’s warm and welcoming feel.
Acid etching is a process when material, in this case copper, is cut using specifically formulated acid. Acid etching metal is a non-contact process. The acid dissolves the metal sections around the part features that are not coated with a photoresist laminate. The process avoids any contact with hard tooling that is often used in conventional methods such as stamping and CNC machining. For this reason, etching metal is favored over the other processes when the absence of burrs is critical to the part’s requirements.
The mottled finish itself evokes the appearance of naturally aged copper, with its deep base colour and delicate variations of lighter tones. This character is achieved through a controlled antiquing method, where the metal is aged and then refined by hand to reveal the soft contrasts that give it depth and authenticity. The result is a surface that feels both timeless and tactile, with an artisanal quality that avoids the uniformity of mechanically polished metals.
In contrast to the reception space, the restaurant required copper elements that would bring brightness and vibrancy to the interior. CDC Engineering manufactured polished copper wall cladding, a copper rod bar gantry, and a polished footrest for the bar area.
The gantry, featuring a globe lamp suspended at its centre, became one of the key focal points of the restaurant. The highly polished copper amplified the light from the globe, producing a lively and dynamic interaction between material and illumination. Achieving this level of clarity and reflectivity involved precise fabrication and an intensive polishing process, ensuring that the copper surfaces remained seamless and visually fluid.
A polished copper finish is created by first smoothing the metal through a series of sanding or abrasive stages, gradually refining the surface until all imperfections are removed. The copper is then mechanically polished using specialised wheels and compounds, which build up the bright, reflective shine. Once the desired clarity is reached, the surface is cleaned and typically sealed with a protective lacquer or wax to preserve its brilliance and prevent oxidation. The result is a smooth, mirror-like finish that enhances copper’s natural warmth and elegance.
One of the most technically demanding features of the project was the bright antique copper bar in the lounge area. Manufactured entirely at our factory, this installation includes a curved ceiling element that blends gracefully into the bar cladding below. Creating a finish that remained consistent across these flowing surfaces required careful control of both the fabrication and finishing processes.
Our team developed a vivid antique copper tone with an orange warmth that complemented the lighting and overall design scheme. The reflective quality of the finish added energy to the room, enhancing the sense of movement created by the curved geometry. The bar was finished in the same material, ensuring continuity throughout the space and reinforcing the sense of craftsmanship that runs through the hotel’s interior.
The Mondrian Shoreditch project showcases how impactful bespoke metalwork can be when design ambition is supported by technical expertise. With all finishing carried out under one roof, CDC Engineering is able to guide designers from concept to completion with a level of control and consistency that is essential in complex hospitality environments. Each copper element in the project reflects a close collaboration between design vision and material capability, resulting in interiors that feel rich, expressive, and beautifully crafted.
Get in touch with our team to discuss your project:
T: 01702 294449
E: admin@cdc-engineering.co.uk
The Brighton Dome is one of the UK’s most treasured cultural landmarks — a complex of heritage-listed buildings at the heart of Brighton’s Royal Pavilion Estate. Recently restored by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios (FCBStudios), the project revitalises four Grade I and II listed buildings, breathing new life into their 19th-century architecture while ensuring the complex meets the demands of modern audiences and performers.
At the centre of the redevelopment stands the Corn Exchange, a magnificent Grade I listed building originally commissioned in 1803 as a riding house for the Prince Regent.
Over the centuries, it evolved into a celebrated performance space. The restoration sought to peel back layers of history, revealing original details while introducing contemporary materials and finishes that complement the building’s rich heritage.
To achieve this delicate balance between preservation and innovation, FCBStudios collaborated with a range of specialist craftspeople, including CDC Engineering, who were invited to bring their expertise in metal fabrication and architectural detailing to the project.
Our brief was to design, manufacture, and install bespoke metalwork that seamlessly integrates with both the historical fabric and the new architectural interventions. The goal was not only to replicate the precision and beauty of the original craftsmanship but also to embody the elegance and durability expected from a modern cultural venue.
At CDC Engineering, we pride ourselves on our attention to detail and mastery of metalwork. For the Brighton Dome refurbishment, our scope included:
Every element was meticulously manufactured in our in-house facilities in Shoeburyness, Essex, ensuring complete control over quality and precision. Working with mild steel allowed us to deliver a balance of strength, lightness, and versatility, crucial for such a large-scale architectural project.
Before installation, all fabricated components were black powder-coated in our on-site spray shop, achieving a durable, contemporary finish that complements the timber-rich interiors. The contrast between the sleek matte-black steel and warm oak surfaces embodies the project’s design philosophy, a refined dialogue between past and present.
The scale and complexity of the Brighton Dome meant our team had to combine engineering precision with adaptive craftsmanship.
Installation required close coordination with multiple contractors, as large cladding sections were fitted while other trades were actively working on site. Communication, planning, and flexibility were essential to ensure the project’s smooth progress and timely delivery.
Certain architectural components, due to their size and geometry, needed to be TIG welded directly on site by our skilled craftsmen. This process demanded not only technical proficiency but also a deep respect for the surrounding historic structure ensuring all work was executed with minimal disruption to the existing fabric.
Our engineers and fabricators brought a problem-solving mindset to every challenge, combining traditional hand skills with advanced fabrication techniques to achieve a flawless finish that met both aesthetic and structural expectations.
The completed Brighton Dome restoration showcases how heritage architecture and contemporary engineering can coexist beautifully. The essential conservation work undertaken by FCBStudios and the project team has restored hidden features, unveiled historic spaces, and introduced modern amenities that elevate the visitor experience.
New foyers, a top-lit bar, gallery spaces, and a restaurant opening onto New Road now connect the cultural complex to the wider city, while accessibility upgrades and improved circulation have made the venue more inclusive for audiences, performers, and staff alike.
For CDC Engineering, contributing to such a landmark project stands as a testament to our commitment to craftsmanship, precision, and collaboration. Our metalwork forms part of the building’s renewed identity, a contemporary layer that celebrates the past while looking confidently to the future.
Based in Shoeburyness, Essex, CDC Engineering specialises in architectural metalwork, structural fabrication, and bespoke design solutions for heritage restorations, commercial interiors, and large-scale public projects. Our dedicated team of engineers, welders, and fabricators combine technical expertise with artistic craftsmanship to deliver metalwork of the highest quality, designed, built, and finished in-house.
Architect: Buckley Gray Yeoman
Client: Private Developer
Sector: Commercial Refurbishment / Heritage
Yalding House, located on Great Portland Street in Fitzrovia, is a celebrated 1930s office building that served as the home of BBC Radio’s Music Department for over 60 years, housing Radio 1, Radio 3, and the BBC’s Central Music Library.
Following the BBC’s relocation in 2013, the building underwent a comprehensive refurbishment to return it to modern office use while preserving its unique heritage.
Appointed by Buckley Gray Yeoman Architects, CDC Engineering delivered a full suite of bespoke architectural metalwork that seamlessly bridges the building’s industrial past with its refined contemporary identity.
CDC Engineering was responsible for the design, engineering, manufacture, and installation of a range of feature metalwork elements across the building, combining hot rolled black lacquer finish with aged brass detailing to create a cohesive material language throughout.
Key Deliverables:
All components were designed, engineered, and finished entirely in-house by CDC Engineering’s specialist teams, ensuring absolute control over quality and visual consistency:
The completed metalwork integrates seamlessly with the building’s architectural narrative — robust yet refined, industrial yet elegant.
The use of hot rolled black lacquered steel and aged brass reflects the craftsmanship of the past while presenting a sophisticated, modern identity for today’s occupants.
Delivered on time and to exacting standards, the project highlights CDC Engineering’s full in-house capability — from concept design to specialist finishing — combining technical precision, aesthetic understanding, and meticulous execution on heritage-sensitive commercial refurbishments.
Client Testimonial
“CDC Engineering brought our design vision to life with precision and artistry. Their attention to detail and craftsmanship were exceptional throughout, and the final result at Yalding House perfectly balances modern refinement with historical integrity.”
— Project Architect, Buckley Gray Yeoman
Get in touch with our team via email admin@cdc-engineering.co.uk or calling 01702 294449
10 Old Bailey, completed in 2009, stands within the St Paul’s Conservation Zone and sits alongside the iconic Grade II* listed Central Criminal Court. The building was originally designed to provide high-quality office space, with a focus on blending modern functionality with the historic character of the area.
A recent refurbishment sought to elevate the building to a higher standard—differentiating it from conventional offices by introducing an executive lounge-style reception, a grand feature lightbox, and a reimagined entrance portico. These upgrades were carefully considered to reflect the building’s architectural surroundings while enhancing its street presence and internal environment.
CDC Engineering was proudly subcontracted by Whittle Interiors to deliver specialist metalwork and architectural finishes for this landmark project. Our scope included two key elements:
The result is a bold and refined building identifier that enhances the street presence of 10 Old Bailey and complements the architectural upgrades.
Through precision engineering, skilled fabrication, and close collaboration with Whittle Interiors, CDC Engineering successfully delivered architectural metalwork and signage that balance performance, durability, and design impact.
The Rosy Gold Rimex entrance cladding now provides a warm, luxurious welcome, while the illuminated “10 Old Bailey” sign serves as a defining feature of the refurbished façade.
This project stands as a showcase of CDC Engineering’s craftsmanship and attention to detail, reinforcing our reputation as a trusted partner in delivering premium architectural finishes within London’s most prestigious developments.
Nestled in the heart of London’s vibrant West End, Elsley House is a striking example of urban renewal. Originally serving the city’s historic ‘rag trade’—a hub for fashion and textiles—this five-storey building in Fitzrovia has been thoughtfully refurbished to meet the demands of modern commercial life. Today, it houses leading names from the marketing, media, and creative industries, offering them a space that combines architectural heritage with forward-thinking design.
The scale and sensitivity of the refurbishment demanded the involvement of experienced contractors with a track record of high-quality finishes and attention to detail. CDC Engineering was proud to be subcontracted to deliver key metalwork elements throughout the project.
One of the core tasks was the fabrication of all Fan Coil Unit (FCU) castings as part of the building’s upgraded heating and ventilation system. These systems were designed to be both high-performance and discreet, ensuring they integrate effortlessly into the building’s contemporary interiors. In fact, in many areas, the FCU units are so well-blended with the surroundings that they are virtually invisible—demonstrating a perfect union of functionality and design.
The FCU castings were crafted using mild steel and finished in a black powder coating, chosen both for durability and to complement the interior’s modern industrial palette. This same material and finish were extended to other custom-fabricated elements, including:
These additions help tie the building’s visual identity together, creating a cohesive and refined aesthetic throughout.
Elsley House now stands as a benchmark for adaptive reuse projects in central London—demonstrating how older commercial buildings can be repurposed to suit new uses without losing their character. CDC Engineering is proud to have contributed to this transformation, delivering expertly crafted metalwork that balances performance, subtlety, and design integrity.
Crafting Excellence: CDC Engineering’s Role in the Exchange House, London
CDC Engineering had the honor of being subcontracted by Parkeray to manufacture and install various key elements for the iconic Exchange House at Broadgate, London. We will look into the technical and creative challenges of our contributions to this landmark structure, highlighting our meticulous approach and innovative solutions.
The Exchange House is a striking hybrid of a building and a bridge, resting over the bustling rail yards of Liverpool Street Station. Its distinctive exposed steel frame spans a remarkable 78-meter stretch, supporting a 10-story office building while enabling the rail operations below to run seamlessly. This architectural and engineering marvel required exceptional precision and expertise – a challenge CDC Engineering embraced with enthusiasm.
In the reception area, CDC Engineering manufactured black aluminum-clad columns to encase 5-meter-tall glass tubes installed as part of the building’s fire safety infrastructure. These columns were designed not only for their critical function but also to align with the aesthetic vision of the architects.
We were tasked with creating 300 bespoke radiator covers for the commercial office spaces. Each cover was uniquely designed to match the dimensions of its location across various floors and rooms.
CDC Engineering crafted lift fascias for each floor, integrating signage and decorative panels with laser-cut Exchange House logos. These details served both functional and branding purposes, ensuring the building’s identity was prominently displayed while maintaining an understated elegance.
Ground floor decorative lift panels with laser cut Exchange House logo pattern.
We manufactured and installed both interior and exterior handrails with a clean, contemporary design that complemented the building’s modern aesthetic.
Additionally, we supplied a range of signage, including:
These elements enhanced navigation while reinforcing the building’s cohesive design language.
Aluminum proved to be the material of choice for this project due to its exceptional properties:
Contributing to the Exchange House allowed CDC Engineering to demonstrate our capabilities in precision manufacturing, innovative design, and seamless integration. From functional radiator covers to intricate decorative panels, every element we produced reflects our commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
The Exchange House stands as a testament to cutting-edge engineering and architectural brilliance. For CDC Engineering, it was a privilege to leave our mark on such a monumental addition to London’s skyline.
CDC Engineering specializes in high-quality metal fabrication and custom solutions for complex architectural projects. Our expertise ensures that every creation combines functionality, durability, and design excellence.
Senturion Key is a prestigious luxury brand renowned for producing the only watch in the world capable of synchronising with an entire collection of supercars. This highly exclusive and groundbreaking innovation combines the worlds of fine watchmaking and high-performance automotive engineering, making Senturion Key watches a symbol of precision, elegance, and cutting-edge technology.
(more…)Elevate Your Space with Our Bespoke Staircase and Balustrade Solutions
BW has subcontracted us to design, manufacture, and install a staircase and glass balustrade for the 8th-floor office space in the phenomenal May Axe (Gherkin) building in London.
CDC Engineering was entrusted with this prestigious project, reflecting our reputation for delivering bespoke and high-quality engineering solutions. Our comprehensive approach encompassed detailed site surveys, precise engineering calculations, and seamless collaboration with architects to ensure flawless execution.
Our engineering team conducted an extensive site survey to gather all necessary data. We performed meticulous design and engineering calculations, which included:
Working closely with the architects, we ensured that the project planning and technical aspects were aligned with the architectural vision and functional requirements. This collaboration was pivotal in achieving a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing design.
In our factory located in Shoeburyness, Essex, we manufactured a full-scale mock-up of the staircase and glass balustrade. This mock-up was presented to the BW team and their clients, allowing for thorough review and approval before proceeding with full-scale manufacturing.
Upon approval, we commenced the manufacturing of the staircase in three distinct sections. These sections were then transported to the site, where they underwent the following processes:
The installation of the smoked toughened glass balustrade added a touch of sophistication to the staircase. This included:
The staircase has become a prominent feature in the iconic Gherkin building, showcasing the craftsmanship and attention to detail that CDC Engineering brings to every project. This project holds a special place for our team, representing our commitment to excellence and our ability to deliver bespoke engineering solutions in some of the most prestigious locations.
For more information on our projects and services, visit CDC Engineering Projects.
We are now accepting new enquiries and projects. If you have any bespoke metalwork needs, please do not hesitate to reach out. We would be delighted to discuss how we can bring your vision to life.
MCM. vision for Aldgate House was to create a new image and facilities that would appeal to both creative and corporate occupiers.
Aldgate House has undergone significant refurbishment and CDC Engineering team have been assigned to engineer design,manufacture and fit copper entrance cladding and copper reception desk.
Bespoke copper feature reception desk has been manufactured in our factory that has geometric triangle bends representing contemporary style designers were aiming to achieve. We delivered to the site to fit when the oak black worktop has been fitted to complete the look.
CDC Engineering Completes FCU Cover Project at Belgravia House, Horseferry Road
At CDC Engineering, we take pride in our ability to deliver precise and high-quality bespoke metalwork solutions. Our recent project at Belgravia House, a Grade 2 office building located on Horseferry Road in the heart of Westminster, exemplifies our commitment to excellence in the construction industry. Subcontracted by Woodhouse Workspace, we were tasked with the manufacture and installation of white powder-coated Fan Coil Unit (FCU) covers as part of the building’s full refurbishment and remodeling.
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