Completion of New Gateway Apartment Buildings in Hertfordshire

This development involved the careful design of 21 apartments within an area of firmly established architectural character. The site occupies an important position at the gateway into the town of Radlett, where commercial district centre and residential outskirts meet. Watling Street, characterised on the east by a distinctly linear streetscape, is comprised of largely 3 storey properties, with high ceilings and retail ground floors. In contrast, properties on the west are domestic in scale, dating from the turn of the century with typically steeply inclined gardens. This smaller domestic theme extends towards Theobold Street.  

The implemented design successfully spans these varying types, bringing cohesion to the streetscape. Towards Watling Street, the established building line and window heights of the existing linear shopping parade are maintained. The elevation is also broken down into town house bays, mirroring the roof lines of the existing houses opposite, and railings and individual front doors are provided to all ground floor flats. Similarly, as the building turns the corner into Theobold Street, the height drops further, in line with the local building scale.

Two 4 storey gables on the corner of the site, form both an entrance to the development and an appropriate end to the commercial sector. This feature is further demarcated, set back from the pavement and placed behind a green amenity area so characteristic of Watling Street. Of great importance to the development is the provision of life care units on the ground floor. 

References to the local architectural character are made via the use of bay windows and simple timber details and gables, with special brickwork features. Additionally, enclosed gardens to the rear are interspersed with paths that lead to a feature pavilion and pergola. The whole is carefully organised to re-focus upon the previously neglected bridge spanning Tykes Water. A respectful consideration of such local traditions and features have allowed this modern development to sit happily amidst the varied urban landscape.