PRP reveals next phase hopes for Clapham Park

Created on 18.12.2009

Leading architectural practice, PRP, has revealed the next steps for Clapham Park, which will see the development of a further 120 homes comprising 54 affordable and 66 private sale units. The development, which will incorporate a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plant which will eventually provide heat and power for over 70 per cent of the new homes provided within the masterplan outline planning approval.

The development, entitled C2, forms the fifth residential development within the Clapham Park masterplan and follows the approval of B5, also designed by PRP comprising 85 affordable homes for rent, which is due for completion in May 2010.

All dwellings have been designed to meet 'Lifetime Homes' standards, HQI's and will achieve Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes following full implementation of the CHP system.

The proposed design maximise both Park views and reinforces the urban street character aspired to within the masterplan. The crescent shaped profile further establishes the backdrop to the new park and incorporates three breaks within the building façade to reduce block massing and facilitate light penetration and access to the courtyard. The eastern and western breaks provide views through the courtyard from the length of Clarence Crescent whilst the southern break enables views from the courtyard out to the park. All dwellings benefit from direct access to a generous private amenity space (balconies/terrace) large enough to seat a table for all occupants whilst dwelling layouts are designed to provide flexibility for future changes in occupancy needs through subdivision of bedrooms.

As Richard Harvey, C2’s project leader and principal architect on the Clapham Park Homes Design code and block B5 explains: “In its current form, the C2 proposal significantly contributes to the community it will serve by providing spacious homes that respond to their location and orientation combined with contemporary design. The planning application is the result of a successful residential consultation and has sought to address a multitude of requirements and aspirations to build upon the success of the previous phase. In addition to the building form, much consideration has been given to the streetscape, the landscape design as well as courtyard access. The development will contribute to the transformation of Clapham Park and deliver quality housing for the area.”

Mark Stallard, Team Leader New build at Clapham Park Homes, comments: "We are delighted with the work that PRP has done for us on C2 and look forward to building the scheme out. The design builds upon previous work but shows a sensitivity to the requirements of this particular site."

C2 addresses two distinct aspects of the built form: the outer public urban street edge and the inner private communal courtyard. The top floor level setback has been employed to create a continuous four storey elevation with ground floor maisonettes designed to reference a traditional Georgian street scene. The internal courtyard has been designed to provide an intimate and layered articulation that provides depth and lightness within the courtyard. It also provides a secure communal landscaped area of amenity for the occupants. The addition of opaque glass balconies on the private balconies are a prominent feature and provide privacy within the courtyard.

The overall regeneration masterplan for Clapham Park will see the regeneration of 61.4 hectares on a site between Brixton, Streatham, Balham and Clapham in the London Borough of Lambeth. New community, educational and commercial facilities will be provided and a new heart for the neighbourhood will be developed around a high quality park.