In the heart of Covent Garden’s Seven Dials Conservation Area stands Chapter House, a beautiful new development, carefully rebuilt by architects Apt to provide 40 wonderfully unique apartments.
The 19th century building previously had many uses but lay unoccupied for many years and was hindered by tight and unsympathetic accommodation. Londonewcastle acquired the prestigious site and appointed Apt to reinstate a new building reflective of its location in the centre of London’s theatre land.
Originally designed by Architects Gibson and Russell, Apt have retained the existing buildings ’street facing’ façade and demolished the building behind to create a new structure that responds intuitively to the site and its surrounding urban fabric.
The historic elements of the project are carefully balanced with a calm two storey extension of copper-like cladding and elegant balustrades. These contemporary additions are stepped back from the facade line, acting as a backdrop softening their visual impact on the streetscape.
The theatre district has inspired the look and feel of the project’s interiors. A large inviting entrance lobby balances the theatrical and sophisticated, materials including warm veneers, padded leather effect concrete, undulating gold curtain and rich deep blue carpet creating drama as you enter.
The new addition has increased the accommodation on the site, formerly a four storey building, it now incorporates six levels of accommodation with private terraces and gardens. These range from studios, three bed apartments, and two duplex penthouse homes stretching across the upper floors. Each apartment has its own individual character responding to the unique floor plans, some spaces lie behind gables or within a water tower which adds character and allows for light wells above and unique window arrangements. The new layout improves fluidity of spaces with the use of pure lines, full height finishes such as ceramic, v-joint panelling and doors and cabinets. A state-of-the-art gym for residents lies within the new basement.
Stephane Piazza at Apt said,
“It’s been a fantastic adventure with challenging moments during the design process in achieving this distinctive scheme in the heart of Covent Garden. We meticulously remodelled and rebuilt Parker House, bringing a redundant building back to life and which is sympathetic to its historic surrounding. Each apartment has its own playfulness and individuality to thrill its future residents.”