Royal Road
Royal Road was won in competitive tender, as part of the Elephant & Castle regeneration early housing sites in the London Borough of Southwark.
The inspiration for the scheme was borne out of the desire to retain as many of the healthy, mature trees surrounding the site as possible, for their positive impact on the street-scape. A cruciform plan was developed, which stepped around the trees and created a central communal garden.
The massing of the building is informed by the heights of surrounding buildings and varies from four to nine storeys across the site. The blocks, alternating in height, give the project a sculptural quality, while unique elevations to each home foster a sense of identity and ownership, both of which are lacking in the stereotypical apartment block.
All flats and maisonettes are dual or triple aspect, providing cross ventilation and good daylighting for all rooms. Residents have gardens, balconies, or rooftop terraces to encourage outdoor living. The scheme provides 80% affordable rented units, all of which exceed minimum space standards.
Royal Road is a car free development with ample secure cycle parking, designed to achieve Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4.
Text from Panter Hudspith Architects
