Not having been updated for many decades and including a number of small and dark rooms, the apartment had a lot of unfulfilled potential. We have opened up and simplified the internal layout of the property and have brought a greatly improved sense of light and space to the apartment.
A much enlarged master suite has been created in the property, with a bespoke wardrobe forming the division between en-suite and bedroom. All existing bathrooms have been brought up to date as more contemporary spaces, and a new handmade kitchen has also been added.
The large reception rooms giving onto Grosvenor Square have undergone a conversion, and are opened up to each other creating an impressive and light filled space. A bespoke sliding folding door now enables the spaces to be divided as required, but when folded back they allow the refurbished rooms to provide a spacious and agreeable living environment full of natural light.
Throughout the project Shape Architecture has designed bespoke furniture ranging from vanity units to wardrobes and seats.
Shape Architecture has successfully obtained three separate planning permissions as part of this project, including the replacement of the large windows giving onto Grosvenor Square with double glazed versions in order to much improve the thermal and acoustic performance of the reception rooms. We have also obtained planning permission for the upgrade of the steel Critall windows throughout the rear elevation. These permissions required close dialogue with both the sub-contractors and the planning department, as the design and installation of the new double glazed windows had to match the existing glazing as closely as possible. Lastly, Shape Architecture obtained planning permission for an external air-conditioning unit so that air-conditioning could be provided throughout the apartment.
As architects working in London, Shape Architecture has built a wide range of apartment conversions across the city. We are therefore able to bring a considerable design and technical expertise to each project and can illustrate a wide range of design issues with previously built examples. This is critical in maximising the potential of any project, from apartment conversions and double storey basement extensions, to apartment buildings and making alterations to listed buildings.