The project involved restoring a Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse near Fitzrovia’s Charlotte Street Conservation Area and the demolition and construction of a replacement rear extension to create a modern workspace across four floors for a family and charity offices and a residential flat.
There were particular challenges in the planning process due to unlawful changes made by a previous owner and in respect of residential/office status. A multi-phase planning strategy was successfully implemented to secure the necessary development rights.
A prominent architectural feature of the project is a hexagonal lightwell within the new rear extension, constructed from handcrafted oak beams, resembling a honeycomb design. This central element allows natural light into a dedicated social area within the modern extension and enhances connectivity between floors.
The oak structure serves both as a support for the glass roof above and the new first-floor roof terrace. Installation of individual elements took place over several weeks, with the structure held together by concealed restraint nodes and tension rods within the timber.
A courtyard garden, situated above the structural timber roof, provides views into the building’s interior through the hexagonal glass. Crafted from timber beams, the garden features integrated seating and a balustrade, maintaining visual continuity with the interior.
The honeycomb motif extends to bespoke corten planter screens surrounding the roof terrace, accommodating bee-friendly planting to support pollination. SPPARC’s design response addresses previous renovations to the building, realigning with the original Georgian plan while incorporating contemporary elements.
New materials were selected to complement existing decorative features, including restored wall panelling and plaster mouldings. Contemporary furniture, bespoke joinery, and lighting were integrated alongside historic elements, such as reinstated stone flooring and terrazzo basins.
The lower ground level accommodates a charity focused on poverty alleviation in the London Borough of Camden, while the family office’s charitable arm will occupy the second floor. Other floors are designated for family office use.
Meridian PM Role: Project Management and Contract Administration
Architect: SPPARC
Structural Engineer: Mason Navarro Pledge (MNP)
MEP Consultant: TPS
Cost Consultant: Piercehill Consulting LLP
Main contractor: Stanway Interiors /Bryen & Langley
Cost: Circa £3m
Project start date: September 2018
Start on site: August 2021
Completion date: September 2023