Wells House, W1

There have been retail uses on the corner of Wells Street and Oxford Street for well over 150 years. During the late 1890s the site was developed as a small department store, specialising in uniforms for the top private schools of the day. In the 1960s it was redeveloped – again, as a department store. A later recladding project entombed the faulty curtain walling in a new system. Problems with the concrete structure meant a further refurbishment was not possible, so our client opted for a new-build scheme that would restore high quality retail to the site.

Designed by Architect Orms, the building’s rich façade nods to the street’s fashion heritage, while the construction embraces cutting-edge sustainability and wellbeing standards. This bold development is a key part of the ongoing transformation of one of the UK’s most iconic streets. With a strong emphasis on quality, performance and value, SIL were appointed by Wates Construction to deliver a comprehensive internal package comprising drywall systems, specialist partitions, and ceiling installations across a shell and core development at The Ribbon.

Scope of Works

The drywall scope included the installation of high-performance partitions within the shell and core, alongside bespoke curved partitioning to perimeter window zones, achieving a high-quality architectural finish. Curved Glass Reinforced Gypsum (GRG) panels were installed to the core areas, creating a seamless and continuous surface. Additional detailing included recessed skirting profiles to enhance the overall aesthetic and maintain clean, uninterrupted lines throughout the interior spaces. The package also incorporated an element of SFS (steel framing system) partition. Soffit slab insulation was installed to the loading bay, ensuring improved thermal performance in line with project performance requirements.

The ceilings scope comprised a variety of high-specification systems tailored to different functional areas. A plasterboard margin was formed around the open office areas whilst metal tiled SAS acoustic ceilings were installed to amenity areas, providing both acoustic control and a contemporary finish. The SAS was interfaced with a BaswaPhon acoustic plaster ceilings, delivering a seamless appearance combined with high acoustic performance. Throughout the works, particular emphasis was placed on coordination with adjacent trades and maintaining quality across complex interfaces.