Working Spaces at the Brunswick
Guidance for tenants of Camden-managed studios, offices and workshops. Covers daily access, estate services, compliance requirements, rent and business-rate considerations, and how these units connect to the wider Brunswick.
Overview of Camden-Managed Commercial Units
The commercial units at the Brunswick sit on the second-floor podium level, directly above the retail concourse. These spaces were built as part of the original estate design to accommodate small organisations, independent projects, and workspace uses compatible with a mixed urban environment. Camden Council retains responsibility for the management and leasing of these units, including the structure, communal areas, shared services, and building-fabric repairs.
The units vary in size and internal layout, but all share the same underlying building infrastructure, including original plant routes, heating pipework, and utility risers. While many units have been adapted over time to meet modern workspace needs, their position within a wider residential estate means that certain operational expectations apply. This content sets these out clearly, reflecting how the spaces function within the Brunswick’s broader architectural and community context.
Access, Keys & Building Entry
Access to the second-floor units is controlled through Camden-issued keys or fobs, depending on the configuration of the specific unit. External doors and stairwells are part of the estate’s controlled-access system, and tenants are responsible for ensuring keys are not copied or distributed without Camden’s written consent. Any problems with locks, fobs or communal access points should be reported through Camden’s repairs service so that security standards are maintained.
The podium walkways are shared circulation spaces used by both unit tenants and residents. As a result, the movement of materials, equipment, or bulky items should be planned and managed in ways that minimise disruption. Out-of-hours access is permitted, but noise must be carefully controlled to avoid disturbance to nearby flats, particularly during early morning or late-night periods. Where specialist deliveries or contractor access are required, Camden should be notified in advance so appropriate arrangements can be agreed.
Repairs, Maintenance & Building Services
Camden is responsible for building-fabric repairs relating to the external structure, communal areas and shared plant. This includes roofs, external walls, podium surfaces, drainage, access doors and any pipework or cables that form part of the estate’s integrated infrastructure. Internal repairs within each unit—fixtures, fittings, alterations and any equipment installed by the tenant—are the tenant’s responsibility.
Heating, water and electrical services vary slightly between units depending on how they were adapted over the years. In general, Camden maintains the incoming supply and any communal elements, while tenants maintain systems and equipment within their demised area. Repairs should be reported through Camden’s central repairs service using the same reporting route used by residential tenants; the service will allocate the job internally depending on whether it relates to communal estate infrastructure or tenant-controlled space.
Routine maintenance such as clearing drains on the podium, inspecting service risers, and checking external lighting is completed through Camden’s estate management programme. Unit tenants should report any recurring issues—such as leaks, persistent ventilation problems or surface deterioration—so they can be logged and monitored.
Waste, Recycling & Servicing Requirements
Waste from the second-floor commercial units must be placed in the designated waste and recycling bins located on the podium servicing route. Each unit is responsible for ensuring its waste is sorted correctly and deposited in the appropriate containers. Commercial waste must not be placed in residential bins or left on the podium deck, as this interferes with estate operations and can lead to contamination of the residential waste stream.
Large items, hazardous waste or any material requiring special collection should be arranged directly with Camden’s commercial waste service or an authorised contractor. Camden does not provide bulk-waste collection for commercial tenants. Deliveries should be coordinated so that packaging waste is not left on walkways or in shared circulation areas, as these form part of fire-evacuation routes for both commercial and residential buildings.
If repeated waste issues arise—overflowing bins, improper disposal, or obstructions—Camden may request a management meeting with the tenant to review arrangements and ensure compliance with estate and fire-safety requirements.
Estate Standards, Noise & Use Conditions
Because the units sit next to and immediately below residential flats, sound transmission and general activity must be kept within acceptable limits. Noise from equipment, music, large gatherings, or early-morning/late-night work can travel through the building fabric and cause disturbance. Tenants should take reasonable steps to reduce noise, particularly during sensitive hours. Where a specific use or activity may generate unusual noise levels, Camden may require mitigation measures or may assess whether the use is appropriate for the space.
Any changes to signage, shopfront elements (if applicable), external lighting or internal layout that affects the shell of the unit must be approved by Camden. The units form part of an architecturally significant estate; alterations must be consistent with its character and comply with building regulations. Storage of materials on the podium walkways is not permitted, and all internal storage must be fire-safe and within the tenant’s demised area.
Tenants are expected to comply with lease terms and to avoid activities that may create nuisance, obstruction or risk. If Camden identifies repeated issues relating to noise, misuse of space, or non-compliance with conditions, it may issue warnings or request corrective action.
Lease Terms, Renewals & Camden Contacts
Lease arrangements for the Brunswick’s second-floor units are managed directly by Camden’s Commercial Property Team. Lease terms vary depending on the specific unit, its size, permitted use and historic arrangements. Items such as rent levels, reviews, insurance contributions and service charges are set through each lease and discussed with the tenant individually.
Renewals and variations are handled through scheduled contact with Camden’s property officers. Tenants planning alterations, changes of use or significant internal works should seek written approval at an early stage to avoid delays. Where a tenant requires a licence for alterations, Camden may need to consult building control, fire-safety teams or other internal departments depending on the nature of the request.
General enquiries, lease questions and tenancy matters should be directed to the Commercial Property Team. Repairs relating to the building structure should continue to be reported via Camden’s repairs service, not through property officers, so they can be logged and managed through the estate’s maintenance programme.
Camden Commercial Property Team
Lease enquiries, renewals and contact details for Camden-managed workspace units →
Camden Business Rates
Information on business rates for commercial units, including billing and exemptions →
Repairs & Estate Maintenance
Report building-fabric issues affecting Camden-managed commercial units and shared areas →
On this page
Overview of Camden-Managed Units →
Access, Keys & Building Entry →
Repairs, Maintenance & Building Services →
Waste, Recycling & Servicing →
Estate Standards, Noise & Use Conditions →
Lease Terms, Renewals & Camden Contacts →