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Hampshire Street, Camden

Mark Smith September 20, 2022

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.

In Extension Tags London, Residential
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Fortis Green Road, Haringey

Mark Smith July 20, 2021

The Transformation of 111-113 Fortis Green

In the heart of Haringey, London, an exciting transformation is underway at 111-113 Fortis Green, N2 9HR. Mark Smith Architects have taken the reins to reconfigure and revitalize this property, elevating it to a new level of elegance while paying homage to the area's rich heritage.

The Vision Takes Shape

Initially approved for a new mansard roof extension to create an additional dwelling, the project has evolved. Now, the focus is on reimagining the interior layout to accommodate seven exceptional dwellings, exceeding minimum area and amenity standards.

Key Objectives

1. Elevate Quality: The aim is to deliver seven high-quality dwellings, each surpassing minimum standards, while maintaining the approved mansard roof design.

2. Stunning Entryway: A new residential access from Fortis Green, revamped ground floor frontage, and an internal communal access stair enhance the building's street presence.

3. Aesthetic Enhancements: The plan includes reconstructing the side extension with better materials and fenestration, new high-quality timber windows, brick tinting, and metal railings to align with the building's character.

The Local Landscape

Fortis Green, at the western edge of Haringey, boasts a mix of low-rise residential structures, mid-rise flats, and charming retail units. It's well-connected to Muswell Hill and East Finchley, with excellent public transport options.

A Glimpse of Heritage

Situated in the Fortis Green Conservation Area, the property blends seamlessly with its historic surroundings. Victorian and Edwardian-era buildings, including Grade II listed gems, define the area's architectural character. A former police station, now residential flats, adds to the neighbourhood's unique charm.

Project Highlights

Here's a snapshot of the project:

- A new mansard roof, mirroring the approved design, with a concealed terrace.

- A reconfigured interior layout for seven dwellings meeting space standards.

- A fresh communal entrance from Fortis Green and a redesigned shop front.

- Reconstruction of the side extension with buff brick, enhanced fenestration, and aligned windows.

- Replacement of uPVC windows with high-quality timber casements.

- New rear balconies and terraces with metal railings.

- Relocated stair for improved communal access.

- Tinted brickwork for a uniform appearance.

Materials and Design

The project maintains the building's character with high-quality materials:

- Slate roof and consistent materials.

- Painted timber casements and lead-clad dormers.

- Decorative clay chimney pots and stone paving.

- Reconstruction of the side extension in buff brick with red brick detailing.

- Tinting of new and existing bricks for consistency.

Privacy and Overlooking

Privacy is ensured with obscured glazing on new ground floor windows. Special attention is given to a first-floor corner window to prevent direct views into neighboring bedrooms.

A Glimpse into Haringey's Future

The transformation of 111-113 Fortis Green bridges the past and present, enriching Haringey's heritage. With seven exceptional dwellings that enhance the community, this project promises a bright future for this historic neighborhood. Join us on this journey of revitalization and preservation.

In Extension, Refurbishment Tags London, Residential, Heritage

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