London based architects, Morris+Company has secured planning consent for the redevelopment of 115-119 Camden High Street. Sited within the eclectic and lively neighbourhood of London’s Camden Town, the new development, which seeks to add to the vibrancy of the area, includes a modern 80-room hotel, three social rental homes and 150 square metres of retail space
Working closely with client, Demar Holdings, the hotel operator and local authority planning and conservation officers, Morris+Company set out to establish a benchmark in collaborative design and engagement. The process ensured that the scheme not only meets the needs of the developer but also of the local authority and the local community, resulting in the provision of much needed social-rented homes, directly in line with Camden’s housing need, affordable visitor accommodation and the creation of 35 new jobs.
Joe Morris, Founder of Morris+Company commented: “We are excited to be delivering a building of finely crafted brick work, rooted in its context, with relief, texture, and materiality which seeks to enhance the sense and vibrancy of Camden High Street. Our main aim during the design development was to add delight and meaning to this key corner of the high street whilst being respectful of the finer grain of the surrounding buildings. The design is a result of a fruitful collaboration between Morris+Company and AXIOM Architects, experts in hotel design, and of the close engagement of the local authority planning and conservation officers during the entire design process.”
On behalf of Demar Holdings, Spyros Petoussis commented: “We are pleased to be bringing forward plans for 115-119 Camden High Street. These proposals will help to make a positive and lasting contribution to Camden High Street and Delancey Street, creating new local jobs, meeting increased demand for hotel space and providing high-quality, genuinely affordable new homes.”
Located within the Camden Town Conservation Area, on the corner of Camden High Street and Delancey Street, Morris+Company’s proposed scheme compliments the impressive Victorian and Edwardian red brick parades which stand as prominent and iconic buildings along Camden High Street. The proposal has been articulated in response to the two different street expressions that converge at the site. Rooted in context and drawing upon the rich architectural grain of these surrounding buildings, the new five storey, 2320 m² scheme creates a bold and confident addition to the neighbourhood.
Sage green perforated metal will accompany the proposal’s carefully considered composition of red brick detailing, concrete and filigree metalwork, providing a vibrant contrast, and referencing the windows of the Bowman Brothers Department Store. The scheme’s decorative brick detailing will extend to the ground floor entrances, enhancing the dynamic internal entrance sequence into the retail and hotel, whilst improving pedestrian flow across the busy junction.
The site is well connected to key destinations in London, including London Zoo, Regents Park and Camden Market, as well as close to several key international train stations including Euston and Kings Cross St. Pancras.