Former Eastbourne garage converted to state of the art office

The former T R Beckett garage in St Leonards Road had fallen into a state of disrepair and been empty for some years before it was taken over by Eastbourne Enterprise Centre and converted into office space.

Eastbourne company Zoonou moved its team and test lab facilities into the building earlier this year.

Jonathan Rogers and Nick Turton first formed the company back in 2007 and having already been in four different locations over the decade, grew beyond the capacity of limited office space.

Managing director Nick said, “We started to look for options for new premises that were large enough to fit our expanding team, but that also had the right type of space and features to house an innovative technology company.

“We happened upon a fortunate introduction to the team at Mistywell Ltd who own the popular Enterprise Shopping Centre and office spaces in central Eastbourne.

“Mistywell had identified a rundown former garage on St Leonards Road that had been empty for many years. More than a wasted space, the property was an eyesore for local residents.

“In partnership with Mistywell, we helped to influence the plans and designs for the development. We needed the space to feel modern and fully-equipped for our testing activities. This included housing of our large mobile and tablet device library. But it was important for all involved that the office still maintained the rustic quirks of the near 100 year old building.

“We’ve been in the new test lab for just over six months now. It’s a fantastic building; the open plan design enables us to work collaboratively on projects. The space is evolving over time, and it’s reassuring to know we have the infrastructure to facilitate our planned growth in the next few years. Many of our clients have commented positively on the look and feel of the offices, and we’re proud to have a new base in Eastbourne that reflects the commitment and hard work of our team.”

Denise Harwood, the commercial director of Mistywell Ltd and the Enterprise Centre, said, “We are delighted to have been able to restore this once derelict building into a high specification, contemporary, bespoke office complex for Zoonou.

“As a fast growing, high tech, innovative company, Zoonou, which was keen to stay local, now have the opportunity to grow into their space, creating more jobs in our town. We were able to achieve this project using several local craftsmen too.

“Restoration of the external build, with a nod to its original 1930s façade, was achieved with grateful thanks to a substantial grant from East Sussex County Council. We are very pleased with the positive feedback from both Zoonou and our neighbours on the completion of this unique building.”

Photos by Annalisa Khan Photography.