EMPIRE HOUSE

Grade II listed apartment refurbishment

Location

Knightsbridge, London

Completion Date

August 2017

Size of Project

150* sqm

Scope of works

Full refurbishment
Listed Building Consent
Licence to Alter
Architectural services
Interior design
Design coordination (Kitchen and wardrobe manufacturers)
Contractor engagement
Project coordination
Plans and details
Fixtures and Fittings

THE CLIENT

The clients, a couple with grown-up children living away from home, were looking to downsize while still providing comfortable space for family visits.

Despite its generous footprint, the original apartment layout made poor use of the available space and did not support the way the family wished to live. The client, with a strong interest in design, approached us with a wide range of ideas. Together, we worked through these to refine and consolidate them into a coherent and achievable brief.

THE STRATEGY

Working within listed buildings requires careful assessment, not only of the presence and age of historic fabric, but also of how to balance conservation requirements with a client’s desire for meaningful change.

In this case, the apartment retained relatively few original features. This allowed us to establish a clear design strategy early and agree it with the conservation officer. While this degree of flexibility is not always possible in listed buildings, it enabled a more fluid and efficient design process for this project.

THE BUILD

The construction team was appointed directly by the client and coordinated closely with the freeholder’s surveyor, addressing all compliance requirements under the Licence to Alter and associated approvals.

Our role extended from concept design through to the preparation of detailed working drawings and concluded when works commenced on site.

As this was the clients’ home, they were closely involved in selecting finishes throughout the project. The site team worked collaboratively to accommodate changes as they arose, responding promptly to minimise any impact on programme and overall delivery.

BEFORE AND AFTER

At the time of completion, the project was not photographed. The property is now being marketed, making it possible to share before-and-after imagery. Further details are available via this LINK