Revitalizing 1 Hampshire Street: A Vision for Sustainable Urban Living
In the bustling heart of London, a transformation is underway at 1 Hampshire Street. This blog post explores the exciting plans for this site, highlighting its significance and what the future holds for this dynamic location.
A Glimpse into the Past
Before delving into the future, let's take a step back and uncover some history. 1 Hampshire Street, situated in London's NW5 2TE area, was once home to a commercial enterprise—an existing photographic studio. In April 2019, planning permission (ref: 2017/2883/P) was granted for a comprehensive redevelopment of the site.
The approved plan featured the construction of a four-storey building that would encompass 334 square meters of commercial floorspace (Class B1) and 16 residential units (comprising 6 x 2-bed, 6 x 1-bed, and 4 x 3-bed apartments, classified as Class C3). The design included charming terraces at both the front and rear of the building, demonstrating a thoughtful integration of urban living and green spaces.
Fast forward to today, and the approved development has become a vibrant and thriving community, with its residents calling it home.
A New Horizon Beckons
But the story doesn't end there. The planning application we're discussing today presents an exciting new chapter in the 1 Hampshire Street narrative. This proposal seeks to add a fifth storey to the building, an ambitious move that will accommodate four additional self-contained dwellings.
These new units will be carefully designed to provide comfortable and contemporary living spaces. Among them will be a 2-bedroom, 3-person apartment, a 1-bedroom, 2-person dwelling, a 2-bedroom, 4-person home, and a spacious 3-bedroom, 4-person residence. Each unit will feature private external amenity spaces towards the front, further enhancing the quality of life for their future occupants.
Connecting with the Community
The location of 1 Hampshire Street is not just about the building itself; it's also about its surroundings and the vibrant community it is part of. Situated at the eastern edge of the London Borough of Camden, it offers easy access to Kentish Town and Camden, both bustling hubs of activity with a wide range of shops, markets, restaurants, and supermarkets. For culture enthusiasts, Camden boasts art galleries, craft markets, live music, and theater venues. Nearby Regent's Canal provides a serene backdrop for leisurely walks and cycling adventures.
Respect for the Past, Vision for the Future
The proposal carefully respects the local context. The site is not within a Conservation Area, but it acknowledges the significance of nearby locally listed buildings, ensuring that any changes align with the character of the area. The existing buildings on the site have been thoughtfully demolished to make way for the approved development and the proposed extension.
Sustainability at the Core
At the heart of this proposal is a commitment to sustainability. From enhanced building insulation to energy-efficient appliances and fittings with reduced water consumption, every detail has been carefully considered to meet carbon reduction targets and contribute to a greener future.
Embracing Sustainable Transport
1 Hampshire Street encourages sustainable transportation by offering internal cycle storage spaces, aligning with The New London Plan. With easy access to public transport, including Kentish Town Railway Station and Caledonian Road Underground Station, residents have plenty of options to get around without relying on cars.
A Bright Future Beckons
The future of 1 Hampshire Street is exciting and promising. The proposed extension will not only provide modern living spaces but also contribute to the sustainability goals of the community. As this project unfolds, it's a testament to how thoughtful urban planning can breathe new life into a dynamic city like London, ensuring that its past and future coexist harmoniously. Stay tuned for updates on this transformational journey.
