“We have taken a rigorous approach to the ambitious unification and extension of the four historic buildings. A great deal of thought and expertise has gone into the detailing and coordination of this ‘cut and carve’ refurbishment.”
Magnus Wills, Associate, Barr Gazetas
The four buildings on this city block were redeveloped in the mid 19th Century and once housed a seed merchant company, a brass and iron founders and a Nonconformist chapel. After suffering significant damage in the Blitz, the buildings were rebuilt and extended over the years. The layered architecture of the site embodies the lively history of Covent Garden and our designs draw heavily on their original uses.
Demolition in favour of a new build scheme had previously been refused by Westminster Council. Instead our successful approach was to retain and restore all four frontages to the block and carefully extend behind, responding to each building individually to reduce the impact of the new development. Four separate buildings are now combined into a single mixed use space, designed around a central atrium with shared green roof terraces.
