ARCHITECTURAL FOCUS
‘ As well as updating the elevational and internal layouts , we proposed changing the car park arrangement , replacing the proposed multiple entrances with a single entrance via a manned concierge station that also houses the building manager , and adding in a lift and external wheelchair access . Three venting structures set within the new landscaping arrangement bring light and air into the lower ground car parking area ’ Jim Richards , Director of Nissen Richards Studio explained .
The practice re-considered the outline of the proposed buildings , ensuring the general massing was similar , but with a series of rationalised changes , including deeper balconies and meaningful window and door reveals , as well as a change to the landscaping in the central gardens , creating more visually playful forms . For the internal layouts of the apartments , the gross internal area was kept the same , but the new formations ensured the net sales area was increased , creating larger living spaces and more efficient common areas .
Materiality ‘ One of the biggest changes with the design evolutions to the scheme was an altered focus on materiality ’ Jim Richards added . ‘ Our approach was to base the designs in a much more contextualised study of local materials , leading to a more textured and expressive exterior treatment , showing a dedication to quality that goes all the way through the scheme .’
Nissen Richards Studio ’ s changes were covered by an initial Minor Material Amendment Application ( S73 ) to the original planning .
Building Layout The buildings were arranged to go up in two phases with the first covering 119 apartments in blocks C to G and the second the remaining 48 apartments in blocks A and B . The apartment typologies are predominantly 2-bed , with half as many 1-bed propertied a small number of 3-bed in blocks C to G . Blocks A and B contain a number of duplex family units .
The final scheme sees a number of apartment buildings set around courtyard gardens . The homes offer secure parking and a concierge service , rare in new schemes so far from the capital . They feature fullheight windows , Amtico flooring , and individuallydesigned kitchens with stone worktops and Bosch appliances . All apartments overlook the scheme ’ s centrepiece private gardens and have access to private terrace or balcony .
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