Established Coventry agent, John Payne Estate Agents, has transformed its premises at Warwick Row into a stylish hub for its staff and clients, while staying respectful to the historic nature of the building.

The firm, which was able to start the project following a grant from Coventry City Council, started the project in late 2023, and has now brought all of its services under one roof as well as taken on new staff.

The improved office, as well as its office in Earlsdon, will be used as a base to support expansion plans and win more work across Coventry and Warwickshire.

John Payne, owner of John Payne Estate Agents, said: “The expansion has enabled us to become a one-stop-shop for our clients to access all our services at the same time.

“For example, if a potential buyer comes in enquiring about a property, but is unsure of their finances, we can now introduce them to our finance team during the same visit.

“The market in the region has been performing well in the latter half of 2024 and into this year, so we are confident we can use the new office as a springboard for further success.”

Sensitive to historic significance

The refurbishment and expansion into the building took longer than typical fit-outs due to John’s desire to preserve its history and comply with listed building rules.

With a history dating back to 1810, the building has been home to a vets, a hotel, a shorthand and typing school, a radio engineering firm, and even the private home of the organist of St Michael’s Cathedral before it was bombed during World War II.

“The plan was never just to put our staff into a bigger office,” John added. “Even before we acquired it, we knew 23 Warwick Row was an impressive building with an extensive history, and we wanted to respect that.

“During the refurbishment, we took great care to stay true to its internal architecture –such as retaining exposed brickwork and fireplaces, ensuring the original designs found on architraves were replicated across several doors, and even preserving the property’s original deeds by framing them.

“We feel like we’re now the custodians of this incredible piece of Coventry’s history. Of course, it’s a great place for our staff to work, but it is lovely to have also put our stamp on such an important building in the city.”