Elegant design and careful detailing
GRID architects for Essential Living
Contract value: £30m
GIA: 2,970m²
Rising above Archway station, this is the refurbishment and recladding of a notorious, 18- storey, 1970s office building into residential units for rent. The tall, dark building dominated the area and, in combination with the empty shops, complex traffic junctions and narrow pedestrian access, made for a poor urban experience.
The renovation is part of the wider regeneration of the area, in tandem with the diversion of roads, the provision of generous pedestrianised space and upgrading of local shops; and has made a commendable difference. Erected without scaffolding and following the original building massing, the new facade achieves the design aim to brighten the building through the use of angled aluminium perforate cladding, concealing its openable windows.
The design and client team are commended for an elegant design and careful detailing, which has transformed a failed building into an active one and made a significant contribution to local regeneration.
See the other winners of the RIBA Regional Awards 2017 - London
See the other winners of the RIBA Regional Awards 2017 - London/Residential