Archetech Issue 76 2025 | Page 7

ARCHITECTURAL FOCUS
This redevelopment is a significant milestone for waterfront residential projects , offering an exceptionally rare supply of waterfront residential properties .
The mixed-use project spans a vast 4.58-hectare site that covers two boroughs of Chelsea Bay . It comprises over 700 apartments , with nearly 40 % designated as affordable housing . The complex includes two landmark towers of 37 and 25 stories , and mid-to-lowrise apartments on the river ’ s edge , surrounded by landscaped gardens .
Additionally , the historic Lots Road Power Station will be regenerated into a residence with retail and dining functions . The redevelopment also provides 600 meters of waterfront access for the public and enhanced public facilities .
Creating a new urban village for London
The holistic urban approach illustrates how highquality design and urban planning can make the best of limited industrial land resources . The master planning principle is to create a new ‘ village ’ connecting the Lots Road neighbourhood on one side of Chelsea Creek with the Chelsea Harbour and Imperial Wharf on the other .
The need to open up the site and establish pedestrian links in the surrounding neighbourhoods has fundamentally informed Farrells ’ proposals , and the key driver has been the purpose to enhance integration , permeability , and connectivity across the development .
Revitalisation of the century-old power station
The Lots Road Power Station , originally constructed in 1904 as the first steel-framed building in the British Isles , provided power to London ’ s underground system for a century , and was known as the “ nerve centre of the London Underground ”.
The central focus of the redevelopment is the preservation of the prominent historic brick façade , complete with terracotta detailing and imposing brick chimneys , which form an exceptionally unique exterior .
At the ground level , the brickwork between the columns was removed to form a covered arcade . Various shops and businesses with full-width , fullheight glass fronts facing the street will enliven the streetscape and maximise the visual connection towards the waterfront .
Above ground level , the newly glazed three-storey high openings combine with steam-cleaned brickwork and terracotta detailing to present a vibrant , welcoming facade to the community .
The existing engine hall was transformed into a full-height atrium space , crossed by two streets connecting from Lots Road to the new public open spaces and the river beyond .
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