Previously a School of Music, Tower House School was founded in September 1931 with only 3 boys. Today, Tower House School provides education for 180 pupils from the local and surrounding boroughs. Covering pupils from age four to 13, the school had outgrown its Edwardian home which means that the once adequate classrooms are no longer suitable for employing 21st century teaching methods.
The development of 190 Sheen Lane provided four new classrooms with more space per child, providing a less cramped environment more conducive to todays teaching. A multi- purpose performance and play space also provides an indoor play facility that the school does not presently have, whilst also providing a flexible space which could be used for a number of different activities and events throughout the academic year, as well as the potential for community use during out of school hours.
We undertook a detailed, historical assessment of East Sheen which enabled us as designers, and the school as the client, to better understand the context and needs of the conservation area that the school sits within.
The removal of the unsympathetic residential building from the existing plot was a positive opportunity and in doing do so aiding in reinstating the architectural quality and unity of the streetscape. The new classroom building is sympathetic to the streetscape through the designed frontage to Sheen Lane and its choice of materials. We allowed the qualities of the surrounding buildings of the conservation area to subtly lead the new building in a form that is respectful and in keeping with the qualities of the Sheen Lane Conservation Area. The single storey multi-use space to the west of the site is partly hidden from Sheen Lane by the new classroom block that fronts the road. Its visual impact to the rear of the plot will be minimised through keeping the buildingβs height below that of the classroom block in front of it.
The first floor rooms of the building are partially within the roof space in order to maximize the new floor area gained whilst keeping the height subservient to the adjacent Building of Merit. Features that characterize the conservation area include bay windows, pitched roofs, dormer windows, and other typical Edwardian residential scale features.
"Following discussion we consider that this latest version is a good scheme, appropriate for the setting, but with buildings having a distinctive personality. The indication of materials shown has a good balance overall. In addition, this provides a good opportunity to improve the frontage treatment along Sheen Lane."
Conservation Team - Richmond and Wandsworth Councils
We`re looking for an experienced Project Architect to join our conservation-led practice in Kendal.
This is an opportunity to take the lead on a diverse portfolio of projects across the UK, from listed buildings, churches and castles to rural estates and carefully considered new architecture in sensitive settings.
We`re looking for an ARB-registered architect with at least five years` post-Part 3 experience who is confident running projects independently and enjoys working closely with clients, consultants and contractors.
In return, you`ll join an established specialist practice with genuine responsibility, opportunities for professional development, and a clear route towards senior leadership.
Take a look at the full job description on our website.
π Kendal
π Full-time | Permanent
πΌ Salary dependent on experience
To apply, please send your covering letter, CV and a concise portfolio showcasing three relevant projects to cg@crosbygrangerarchitects.co.uk.
Aug 5
Chloe Granger recently visited St John`s Church in Blackburn along with colleagues Andrew Bodenham, Amy Redman, Gabriela Popa and Luke Gardner to carry out a detailed stone survey π
During the survey, we identified areas of stonework that require defrassing or redressing to ensure any loose material is safely removed, as well as some replacements. The do-less approach will help to protect the public, as well as preserve as much of the historic fabric of the church as possible.
Whilst this inspection is part of a larger project, regular inspections like these are an important part of maintaining our built heritage for future generations.
#Construction #Architecture #Blackburn
Aug 4
A whole estate plan is more than a set of drawings - it`s a roadmap for the future.
It provides clarity, direction and confidence, ensuring every decision supports your long-term vision.
At Crosby Granger Architects, we do more than design. We coordinate, communicate and bring your vision to life, creating a seamless plan that works for today and generations to come.
If you`re an estate looking to plan ahead with purpose, we`d love to help.
Get in touch to start the conversation.
Jul 30
