Challenge
Our clients hoped to transform the tired rooms above their 1930's pub in Greenwich into a boutique apart-hotel, adding an upward storey extension and a first-floor rear extension. They sought to create a charming hotel catering to visitors and students, enhancing the building while respecting the area’s character. Despite this, the project received 28 objections, making our task considerably more difficult.
Approach
We conducted thorough research into the architectural history of the site and area, incorporating the greatest elements of earlier versions of the pub. Our design included arches in the new mansard roof and retained the simple 1930s elegance on the first floor. We also added tiles on the ground floor to reflect the tradition of tiled British pubs.
Solution
Despite the many objections, we successfully secured planning permission by demonstrating that the project did not constitute a change of use, as the apart-hotel fell under the same C1 use class as the existing rooms. The redesigned building features generously sized rooms with en-suite bathrooms and kitchenettes, suitable for extended stays. The new design perfectly bridges the scale between neighbouring buildings and revitalises the pub, contributing positively to the community and local heritage.