Architects reimagine a St Ives landmark
Once a place where money was stored behind heavy doors, the old HSBC bank on Market Hill has been given a new lease of life. On Friday 12th September, local practice Cameron Bosque Brooks Architects (CBBA) will officially open the door to their reimagined headquarters: The Property Vault.
The building’s transformation has been led by CBBA’s directors, Grant Cameron and Oliver Brookes, who saw potential where others might have seen a shuttered relic.
Over the past few months, they’ve stripped back the old banking hall, preserved its sense of solidity, and breathed new purpose into it – creating an interactive hub designed to spark conversations about property and development.
At the heart of the project is a playful twist of history. The bank’s secure safe, once home to cash and valuables, has been converted into CBBA’s Virtual Reality Vault – a state-of-the-art space where clients can step inside their future home or business before a single brick is laid.
The official opening will bring together local business leaders and community figures for an evening of relaxed networking, drinks and nibbles, and the chance to see The Property Vault in action.
For Grant and Oliver, this moment is about more than a new office. Known online as the “Outspoken Architects”, they’ve made it their mission to shake up the way people see architects – swapping jargon for straight-talking advice, and the ivory tower for an open door.
“We want people to feel comfortable asking us anything – whether it’s about a home extension or a big commercial project,” says Grant Cameron.
“When architects are involved from the very start, projects usually save time, money and stress. Being here in the centre of St Ives means people can just drop by, sit down for a chat, or experience their ideas in 3D inside the Vault.”
With decades of combined experience and a portfolio that spans award-winning homes, heritage restorations and commercial spaces, CBBA is using this move to cement its place in the heart of the community – and to reframe what an architect’s office can be.
Event Details: (attendance at the opening event is by invitation only. Please contact info@cbbarchitects.co.uk to request an invite)
The Property Vault
17a Market Hill
St Ives
Cambridgeshire
PE27 5AL
Friday 12th September
5.30 – 8pm: Drinks and Nibbles
From 8pm: Special invite after party at The Whisky Cafe
About CBBA
Cameron Bosque Brooks Architects believe in elevating every space with a thoughtful, practical approach. Their diverse portfolio spans residential, heritage and commercial projects – from reimagining workspaces and creating homes filled with light, to preserving the character of historic buildings.
info@cbb-architects.co.uk
01480 301 554
cbb-architects.co.uk
The former HSBC bank, now The Property Vault
The new Virtual Reality Vault (inside the old safe)
CBBA directors Grant Cameron, Silvia Bosque and Oliver Brookes
Before!
After!
