Simon Foote Architects was approached by Derby QUAD Ltd to produce a feasibility study for the re-use of an industrial unit located within Pride Park, Derby. The industrial building was formerly used as a chocolate factory before being purchased by compendium living, a publicly funded housing developer, and consisted of a large open space with enormous potential.

The brief was to provide a functional space which could be occupied by creative businesses, workshops and galleries. The concept included ‘pods’ which divided the internal space into areas for each use, replacing large sections of the roof with glass panels allowed a large amount of light into the structure, the two elements combined created the feeling of an outdoor space whilst being enclosed by the original structure. Simon Foote Architects completed a financial study on the scheme to assess the viability which was later presented to QUAD.

Today, the chocolate factory is home to the highly popular street food venue, Bustler Market.