Penrose Mews

This ingenious scheme achieves 10,500 sqft development on a 7,800 sqft site without feeling cramped.  The key was the creation of a basement under the shared courtyard, hiding almost 50% of the development; and the relocation of an existing sub-station on site within the new basement.  As a result of the basement, the new building could be made to appear smaller than the old one it replaced so that it would not exceed the Right to Light or Daylight envelope and ensured that the courtyard would benefit from ample daylight and sunlight throughout the year.

The courtyard provides a sociable space for residents to gather and interact.  The surrounding brickwork is partly glazed, more so towards the top, to reflect light into the space and homes.  The bespoke clear glaze, which undulates over the surface of the brick, creates a rippling reflection that shimmers as one moves around the courtyard.

Lightwells and rooflights were used to bring natural light into the living areas located below ground.  High ceilings give a generosity to the reception rooms.

On the first floor, roof terraces accessed from the master bedroom provide additional private amenity space and enhance the feeling of openness.  Delicate hit and miss brickwork walls sit to one side of the roof terraces, screening views into neighbouring properties and providing an intricate play of shadow.

The choice of materials is also important.  Many people in these situations suggested using white render, light reflecting paint and such but this would have resulted in a higher maintenance finish, which stains easily and plasticky finish.  Whilst the chosen brick was a dusty pink colour the reflectivity was comparable to London stock brick, and yet it has a warmth in the colour reflected.  The interiors were finished in flat matt paint, which provides a softer more natural reflected light than the high reflective paints.  The overall composition is warm and inviting.