Project Information:

This development brought new life to an unused Grade II Listed end of terrace building in this iconic central Cambridge square as well as utilising the space surrounding it by demolishing an existing garage and unused parking bays. PiP’s design created five self -contained flats along with courtyard garden, bringing much needed housing to the city centre.

The conversion of the existing building came from the study of the surrounding context in order to highlight distinctive architectural features that would retain much of the historical character. The new buildings were designed to match the original elements of the historical house whilst at the same time, introducing modern characteristics.

The louvres on the windows avoid any overlooking into the communal garden and the garage replacement cleverly blends the style of the Willow Walk buildings with the listed building. Brick reveals were introduced with the use of bricks that match with the original building. New light-well windows fronting a communal garden were designed to be in keeping with the original sash windows that can be found along New Square. Considerable thought was put into designing the rear building that faces Willow Walk to ensure as little impact as possible on the conservation area. The resulting design is distinctive yet sympathetic to ensure privacy is maintained between the neighbours.

Energy consumption was reduced by the use of passive construction measures to reduce the requirement to consume energy to heat, ventilate and light the building. Within the construction energy efficient measures were put in place to reduce carbon footprint. Sustainable technologies were also used such as underfloor heating and an electric boiler as well as a green roof. The development will also be capable of being connected to the future district heating network for heat supply when it becomes viable.