Barretts Grove, London N16

The developer client came to ARCHEA with the site and a Certificate of Lawfulness for a change of use from the original ex-industrial office units, to 5 new residential units. The scheme design was limited due to the inability to apply for physical alterations within the temporary Permitted Development Change of Use application process, and as such ARCHEA applied for the necessary physical alterations based on the existing buildings and use (office), rather than within the context of the agreed domestic use. As part of this re-design and resubmission process, ARCHEA were also asked to improve the design quality of the new residential units, and also try to maximise the potential number of new units achievable on the site.

In collaboration with CSGM planning consultants, planning permission was achieved for 8 new residential units (6 flats & 2 duplex houses). The approval included extensive physical reworking of the existing buildings and the provision of much need external aspect (some of the previously approved units had living rooms and bedrooms with only rooflights, not windows). Private courtyards were also provided for the 2 ground floor units.

Having achieved planning permission, ARCHEA then set up full production information, including Building Regulations approval and tender documentation, together with full interior and exterior specifications, in order to deliver a considered and coordinated contemporary aesthetic, that fitted the historic ex-industrial nature of the site. The designs were not only focussed on style and context, but also on quality, efficiency in construction and economy for the client.

ARCHEA carried out full site coordination, in collaboration with Bellamy & Wareham Chartered Surveyors, in order to oversee the full construction process, sale and hand over of the properties.