Royal Hill

Greenwich

Our scope in Royal Hill entailed applying the Client’s unit specifications, organised in an efficient layout to maximise the site potential, whilst integrating into the sensitive conservation and heritage context.

  • Client: London Square
  • Size: 59 apartments
  • Status: Completed
  • Awards: Shortlisted for the British Homes Awards 2024
  • Sectors
    Mainstream Residential, Private Development
  • Services
    Concept Design

Royal Hill is on the site of the former Greenwich Police Station. A distinguished development comprising of 59 residential units of 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments with private amenity and ancillary accommodation. A scheme that enriches the architectural topography in one of London’s most historically and culturally rich areas.

 

The scheme is located close to the historic heart of Royal Greenwich within the West Greenwich Conservation Area and is in close proximity to various listed buildings, with the most prominent being the Grade II Listed Former Town Hall complex directly opposite the site. Hence, the architectural language of this new building draws in that of the adjacent listed Former Greenwich Town Hall, establishing a relationship to define the junction and the key views around the junction. Royal Hill in conjunction with the Former Town Hall, frames the picturesque view of the clock tower, enhances its overall setting.

Royal Hill is shortlisted in the Development of the Year (20-100 Homes) category of the British Homes Awards 2024.

Design

The architectural design of Royal Hill is characterised by its approximately L-shaped layout and is made of 2 distinct components - the main parent building (Building A) and the link building (Building B) - each with their own circulation core. Subsequently, creating an enclosed landscape courtyard within the development - a key feature to provide physical and visual amenity for residents. A dedicated space for community use is designed to be flexible for a range of uses at ground level. The building ranges in height from 4-6 storeys to relating to the Former Town hall. 

 

The entrance has been designed to create a sense of arrival and to provide both a visual and physical connection to the residents’ courtyard to the rear of the development. 10% of residential units are M4(3). In addition, 3 residents’ parking spaces are provided, of which 2 are blue badge parking spaces. A space dedicated to community use will be provided and will occupy the most prominent part of the ground level. This provides active frontage which responds to the civic nature of the setting created by the former Town Hall.

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The scheme is intended to provide accessibility to everyone, for all ages and all abilities. 10% of residential units are M4(3) compliant. The development also includes 3 residents’ parking spaces of which 2 are blue badge parking spaces as well as 112 cycle spaces.

 

Royal Hill incorporates and enhances the existing context and local character of Greenwich. A darker brick colour was chosen for the main building of Royal Hill, to respect and compliment the Town Hall opposite - not to compete but also to look distinct. The link building is given a buff colour to help integrate the scheme with its context on Royal Hill.

 

Royal Hill offers convenience and accessibility to amenities for residents. Ensuring effortless connectivity with various public transportation options at easy walking distance, making it a highly desirable choice for residents. Residents will also be able to enjoy their homes in a unique area where it is full of heritage and culture. The scheme is a walking distance to Greenwich Park, providing residents an escape from the hustle and bustle city life. Residents can also enjoy breathtaking views of Canary Wharf, the O2 and the London skyline from their balconies.

The planning process included public consultations, input from the local communities, the Local Authority, the CABE design review panel and broader interest groups such as Historic England, Conservation Officers for the Greenwich Council and the Greenwich Society. Planning permission was granted in 2019.

Next Case Study:

Uxbridge Road

Formation Architects have successfully achieved planning permission for a 53-unit residential scheme located at London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham on behalf of TT Group.

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