Project Lavender
Confidential
A commuter town north of London, Project Lavender presents a unique opportunity to deliver a masterplan which converts a predominantly commercial site into a mixed-use, residential-led development regenerating the local community and high street.
The former office blocks have been reimagined as a small neighbourhood with improved public space and walkability, with an approach to retain and convert much of the existing structures, reducing potential carbon emissions whilst introducing more than 500 residential properties. The development provides a varied unit mix, from single to large family households, with at least 35% classified as affordable, aspiring to create multi-generational communities with assisted living and care housing to meet local needs.
Initial design studies focused on how to best utilise this largely underdeveloped site which was dominated by an expansive car park. The team identified key heritage elements and massing in the local context that would help triggering the best response to the site. The masterplan looked to turn the previously isolated site into a local landmark sitting at the historical centre of the community. Pockets of open space were strategically placed to minimise impact and maintain a similar grain to the existing high street. New commercial opportunities were identified at ground level, defining pedestrian routes through the site and contributing to maintain and generate local employment.
We have worked closely with heritage, highways and with daylight and sunlight consultants on an initial assessment, making recommendations to best serve the local community in line with the Local Plan. Parking on the site was also retained and densified, capped by new green space centrally located between the housing blocks.
This redevelopment seeks to open up the site for better pedestrian access, permeability and connectivity with introduction of new uses including residential, retail, commercial and leisure. The objective of such redevelopment is to increase footfall, local spending and the evening economy to support the vitality and viability of the town centre.
Consultants
Daylight and Sunlight: Point 2 Surveyors
HIghways: Caneparo Associates
Heritage: Stephen Levrant Heritage Architecture
Town Planning: HGH Consulting