5 days, 15 hours ago
A Decade of Shaping the Design and Engineering of Here East
We often talk about Here East’s Olympic Legacy and transformation from the former Press and Broadcast Centre of the London 2012 Games to the dynamic innovation hub we’ve created here today. One member of our team who has not only witnessed this journey – but has been integral to shaping it – is our Project Manager, Nick Wakeling, who has supported the engineering and design of our campus for the past decade.
We spoke to Nick to learn more about his story at Here East, hear about his highlights over the years, and get his take on the exciting grand opening of the new V&A East Storehouse this summer. Read on to find out more.
Tell us about your story at Here East and how the campus has changed over the years.
Nick: “My journey at Here East started ten years ago, and from day one, I have been integral to developing the site, setting up engineering procedures, and working closely with our service partners. I’ve been involved in many projects over the years – from tenant fit-outs to designing the reception area to overseeing mechanical and electrical works – all the time improving the campus.
“I’ve seen Here East grow considerably over the years. I can still recall the former London 2012 Olympic Press and Broadcast Centre as a simple steel frame shell, so it’s been a pleasure to witness Here East develop from this into the unique collaborative and innovative campus it is today.”
What are your favourite and proudest memories from your time here?
Nick: “It’s the collaborative nature of our work that always gives me the most satisfaction. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience with wider team members, as well as working alongside third-party contractors and design teams.
“I’d have to say, the stand-out proud moments for me have been when our work fitting-out new offices or studio spaces is completed. This is the moment where we step back and admire what has been achieved – sometimes over long periods of time, as from start to finish projects can take months or even years to complete.”
What excites you most about the new V&A East Storehouse opening this summer?
Nick: “I have been involved with the V&A East Storehouse from day one, so it’s incredible to see it transform from the early stages of groundwork, pilling, and structural design to how it is today: a vast display of artefacts, furniture, and materials – all with a fascinating story behind them.
“Seeing the grand opening this summer will be the last chapter of a very interesting and educational project that will bring excitement and fascinating history to Here East.”
What impact will this new cultural institution have on Here East’s campus and local community?
Nick: “With over half a million works on view, the Storehouse will provide opportunities for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in creativity and embrace all that this vibrant institution has to offer.
“It will attract a large number of people to Here East daily and will provide a fantastic opportunity for the wider community to visit our campus and collaborate with us.”
Why should leading-edge businesses in growth sectors look to Here East as a place to call home, scale, and grow?
Nick: “The Here East ethos and character of courage, care and collaboration is clear to see when you’re on campus. This is a place to be supported. A home for pioneering businesses to grow and thrive amongst a diverse community of like-minded innovators. And a vibrant hub where educational institutions empower small businesses to push boundaries.
“Come and join our ecosystem – we’d love for you to grow with us, giving our collaborative community a go.”
What are you looking forward to this year?
Nick: “Alongside the opening of the V&A East Storehouse and various large-scale projects I’ll be involved in, I’m looking forward to spending summer in the Here East Yard and at the waterside restaurants and cafes on the Here East Canalside – Here East thrives in the sunshine.”
