374a Wandsworth Road

Lambeth

Redevelopment to provide 65 new homes, commercial uses, and a public square. Designed by StudioOne Architecture.

In principle, a mixed-use development could work on this site. We are aware of examples of well designed residential schemes in a commercial or industrial context. The local authority should assure itself on whether this development is appropriate within this area designated for key industrial and business use. However, we regret to say that we feel a convincing case has not yet been made for this scheme. The site appears overdeveloped and the proposal seems too large for its context and some of the internal spaces are unsuccessful.

We feel that the size and height of the proposed building complex, two slab blocks on an elevated podium, is overbearing for the scale of the site context. We suggest investigating a more modest building typology which would fit better into the local structure and engages more with this part of Lambeth. We also think that rearranging the current layout would allow lowering the residential blocks without reducing the number of units; an alternative arrangement could also help protect the central courtyard from noise without having to introduce the acoustic screen.

Internally, the proposal gives some reason for concern. Some of the flats, particularly those adjacent to the acoustic screen, seem to have insufficient window openings and are likely to be dark. The long internal corridor in the northern block could benefit from natural light and visual connections to the outside. We also find that the position of the crèche, located on the mezzanine level below the courtyard, is unfortunate.

The environmental strategy does not appear to be an integral part of the design thinking and we urge the design team and client to develop ambitious targets for energy consumption, water reduction, waste management and other aspects of environmentally friendly construction.

In conclusion, we feel that the scheme does not present a convincing solution for this site nor does it have the necessary architectural quality. As such, we do not think it meets the aspirations of PPS1 and therefore should be refused planning permission.