Revitalizing Tottenham: The Vision Behind the Broad Lane Office Building
The winds of change are blowing through Tottenham, North London, and at the heart of this transformation lies the former car wash site on Broad Lane, N15. This once underutilized space is now poised to become a symbol of progress and urban development, thanks to the team at Mark Smith Architects Ltd.
Uncovering the Background
A planning application was granted back in 2017 (HGY/2016/2232). This approval allowed for the demolition of the car wash and the construction of a modest three-story office block. However, this was merely the starting point for a more ambitious endeavour.
The approved office building was relatively modest, offering 1,759 sq.m. (20,914 sq.ft.) of office space. But now, the plan is to take it up several notches. The new vision seeks to expand the project into a towering nine-story office building, promising an impressive 5,694 sq.m. (61,290 sq.ft.) of flexible office space.
Designing for the Future
The Broad Lane Office Building is not just about size; it's about quality and sustainability. The building has been meticulously designed to respond to it’s urban surroundings and emerging context. With elegant brick detailing, green roofs, and photovoltaic panels, it blends aesthetics with environmental responsibility.
What's more, this building is a testament to energy efficiency and sustainability. It boasts excellent insulation and the ability to generate its electricity through the sun's power. In fact, it's designed to have carbon emissions significantly lower than what regulations demand, targeting an Excellent BREEAM sustainability rating.
Context Matters
This redevelopment isn't happening in isolation; it's part of a broader context. Tottenham Hale, just 0.5 km north, is in the midst of a transformation. With new retail areas, services, jobs, and homes, it's evolving into a bustling hub. The area's strategic importance is underlined by its transportation connections, including an underground station, rail station, and bus station, providing access to central London, Stansted Airport, and East Anglia.
Surrounding the site are open spaces like Down Lane Park, Markfield Park, and the Paddock community nature park. These green areas offer recreation and a connection to nature, adding to the overall appeal of the location.
Building for the Future While Respecting the Past
The Architects behind the Broad Lane Office Building have taken great care to respect the area's heritage and existing character. The site isn't within a Conservation Area, and there are no listed buildings nearby. However, it's crucial to ensure that the new development harmoniously integrates into the urban landscape.
Materials That Blend In
The choice of materials for the Broad Lane Office Building is a nod to the diverse architectural landscape of the area. The building incorporates a variety of brick tones, reflective of the surrounding structures. Brown brick harmonises with the existing streetscape on Broad Lane, while lighter bricks complement the industrial tones to the east.
Metal cladding adds another layer of visual interest to the building. It's a conscious effort to ensure that the new structure feels like a natural part of the urban fabric.
A Sustainable Future
Sustainability is at the core of this project. The building is designed to be energy-efficient, well-insulated, and capable of generating its electricity through photovoltaic panels. Sustainable urban drainage systems and green roofs help manage stormwater and reduce the impact on local flooding.
Inside, energy-efficient fittings will be installed, and separate waste storage facilities will encourage recycling and re-use. The inclusion of secure internal cycle parking promotes sustainable transport options, reducing road pollution.
A Bright Future Ahead
The Broad Lane Office Building is more than just bricks and mortar; it's a symbol of progress, sustainability, and thoughtful urban development. It represents the bright future of Tottenham, bringing new opportunities for businesses and job seekers alike. As Tottenham continues to evolve, this architectural masterpiece stands ready to be a cornerstone of its success