Two new buildings are linked by a concrete plinth, resolving changes in site level
RIBA National Award winner 2021
RIBA London Regional Award winner 2021
Tikari Works for Metropolitan Projects
Contract value: undisclosed
GIA: 880m2
Realising this extraordinary development of two small blocks of six and four flats with a social housing component, facing Peckham Rye Park, was a labour of love. Coming from a practice that was architect, developer and contractor all in one, it was a pleasure to learn about the architectural concept and the trials and tribulations of turning it into a successful building.
The corner design is sustainable and visually attractive, creating apartments that are a joy to live in. Beauty and innovation are everywhere, a respectful but subtly subversive response to its urban context: the quality of light inside and subtle detailing of the rooms, mainly in timber – especially the Spruce kitchen cabinetry, storage units and shelves – to create a seamless surface. Terrazzo-style cream and amber flooring runs throughout with brick-red quarry tiles lining the hallways and bathroom, a nod to the building’s exterior. Shared gardens are separated by a timber fence, with private outdoor amenity spaces for apartments without access to gardens.
Above the concrete structure that forms the basement and plinth, the architect decided to use as few wet trades as possible, choosing a CLT structure, self-finished where possible on the inside.
Outside, the roof and walls are clad in elongated Danish U-shaped red shingle roof tiles that reference neighbouring brick buildings with a distinctive twist, elegantly differentiating the blocks in their setting and unifying them as part of a single development. The project is subtle and the intelligence of its planning and execution sparkling.
See the rest of the London South East winners here