Assael secures planning consent for landmark development in Shenley Road
Assael Architecture has secured planning permission for 150 new homes on a landmark site on Shenley Road in Borehamwood for residential developer Heronslea.
The new, approved scheme consists of two prominent buildings and includes a 12 storey building which steps down to 7 storeys. It will provide 150 high-quality homes of varying sizes ranging from one and two-bed units to larger three-bed family homes. 36 will be affordable (24%).
Situated on a prominent corner location on a large roundabout opposite the famous Elstree Film Studios, the scheme creates a striking landmark signalling the entrance to Borehamwood town centre and has the potential to act as a ‘gateway’ development to kick start the Area Action Plan for Elstree Way Corridor, which has been earmarked for being able to deliver at least 800 residential units over the next 20 years.
Heronslea appointed Assael Architecture following previously unsuccessful applications to gain planning approval for the challenging 0.3 hectare site, currently occupied by two office buildings, Isopad House and Hertsmere House.
Assael has combined contemporary architecture with the language of 1930’s Art Deco, to echo the style prevalent among cinema buildings, given the ongoing reputation in the area for filmmaking. Different coloured brickwork will be used to reflect the various environments, spaces and uses and bespoke metal rainscreen cladding will adorn the corner to reflect the materials used on the Elstree Film Studios opposite.
All dwellings will benefit from private balconies and a 937 sq m (10,0086 sq ft) courtyard will provide generous private and communal amenity space with landscaping to a high standard. The stepped form of the buildings provides roof terraces for some occupants.
Greg Greasley, Director at Assael Architecture said: “This is a difficult and challenging site where we have been able to produce a scheme of exceptional quality and create a contemporary, landmark development for Borehamwood. The design team has gone to great lengths to deliver a scheme that is architecturally fitting for this highly visible site, enhances the existing streetscape and seeks to deliver a clear distinctive identity for the area. We hope it sets the benchmark for future development in the Elstree Way Corridor.”