Plashet Road London
The proposed development is for 6-flats on the site of an existing warehouse, in the London Borough of Newham. The site itself is surrounded by residential properties, and has a number of key constraints such as the impact upon neighbouring amenity, restricted views, overshadowing and a close proximity to mature trees.
Our approach was twofold; to reduce the impact of the development on the surrounding residential properties, we also wanted to engage with the characterful streetscape of Penge Road.
On the rear elevation we used a combination of design tools such as enclosed courtyards, light wells and stepped massing to help mitigate the impact on the neighbouring properties. Solid timber louvers were proposed where required, to help reduce overlooking.
On the front elevation we wanted to play with the terraced house bay window typology of the existing streetscape. The proposed façade continues the rhythm of the bay window, while the recessed bay helps to reduce impact of the overall scheme and create a demarcated entrance to the flats above. To help activate the street frontage further we wanted to maximise entrance points along the façade, through creating dedicated entrances to each of the ground floor flats.
A key part of the proposal was our comprehensive energy strategy. Along with highly insulated walls, solar thermal panels and rainwater harvesting, we proposed a Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery system to supply pre-heated fresh air to the residences.
The detailing and material selection for the proposal were well received by the planning team at Newham Council. Velfac timber framed aluminium windows with metal reveals within a high quality London stock brick facade help to enhance the streetscape appearance. The set back to the second floor is clad in a standing seam zinc, supplied by KME. The subtle tone, colour and form of the setback will help reduce visual impact.
