Lynch architects: Kings Gate, SW1, London; 2015
This scheme replaces an existing slab-like office building on Victoria Street in central London with two new buildings that incorporate a mix of retail, office space and housing.Ā
Opportunities for pedestrian permeability through the site led to the proposal for porous blocks, which between them form two significant new public spaces and public routes. The design comprises two clearly distinct buildings that express their different internal uses whilst making a harmonious urban ensemble. Zig-Zag (G+12 storeys) will be office space from second floor upwards and Kings Gate (G+14 storeys) is exclusively residential from second floor upwards, housing 100 apartments ranging from studios to three and four bedroom family flats.
The scheme proposes an active retail frontage at ground and first floors of both buildings. Kings Gate is made of Jura limestone and bronze coloured metals. Its south faƧade incorporates long terraces and the stone piers protects the interiors from overheating and the inhabitantsā privacy, presenting an orderly and dignified face towards Victoria Street. The rear limestone faƧade overlooking the Royal Parks forms a āgarden elevationā of metal balconies. Projecting bay windows on the side elevations provide daylight into the deep plan and offer views south over the River Thames or north-west over the parks. We see the scheme as a unified part of the city in which landscape, public art and architecture are conceived of as a single project.
Area: Residential - 10,090m2 NIA (108,610 sq ft) 100 apartments, Retail - 690m2 (7,430 sq ft), Multi-story Carpark - 152 car parking spaces, 386 cycle spaces over 5 floors
Further reading 1, 2
