Author Archives: Stephen Hall

How roof terraces can bring even more value to London

There are many popular postcodes in London. They each have their own amazing architecture and heritage. However, one of the harder things to obtain is access to green space. There could be an answer though in the form of the city’s rooftops. We would be more than happy to help you with this kind of project, giving you a chance to work with a first class architect London loves.

What Makes It Special

A roof space can be alive all year round. They can help make London greener through plants and miniature gardens. This is a great element in sustainable architecture. When done right, they can improve water and air quality as well as increasing biodiversity in the local area. There are also numerous pieces of research that show how access to a green space can reduce stress.

Terraces can help people embrace the passion for outdoor space. In addition they can make your property more attractive to buyers and tenants for the potential to be out there in warm weather. You can also design it to be a sheltered space from wind.

Remember These Things

There are some important considerations with roof spaces. For example you must ensure its appearance complements the rest of the property. On top of this, any supporting walls need to be able to carry the weight of the materials and guests. When you work with experts and think creatively, almost any building can benefit from a roof terrace.

Approval

Planning permission is an essential aspect and cannot be ignored. While you may not need it, you must be sure so that you do not run into problems later down the line. Make sure you ask your local authority about your rights and their rules. These will differ by area.

There are a lot of people considering the idea of a rooftop conversion because this additional space is desirable. This demand means that there is more precedence for councils to grant permission in different areas.

With our work we can design something that will make your application look favourable. This includes following all relevant regulations. Another part of this is working on your ideas and suggesting some of our own. As a result we will be able to create a stunning space you will love to use any chance you get.

At Coffey Architects, we love to take part in various projects to create something amazing. Start talking with a first class architect London can trust and reach out to us today. We have experience with properties of various ages and can even work in conservation areas where rules are strict.

Introducing the Tulip – A new London skyscraper

When it comes to architects London attracts some of the most creative people in the world. The city is forward thinking and has unique challenges to deal with. As a result there are plenty of stunning buildings with unique designs.

In the last few days plans for the newest skyscraper for the capital were revealed. The proposal for the Tulip is to create a new cultural public attraction. The building would contain education facilities, a public roof terrace, retail space, and even glass slides. There would also be a new park around the base of the tower.

The building would be a fantastic amenity for thousands of local schoolchildren in the capital. In addition it would be another popular tourist attraction.

The Tulip has the shape of a bud from the beloved flower. In total the tower would be 305 metres high. The viewing galleries would be around 300 metres up, giving visitors wonderful views all across the capital.

Green design

The proposal is for a surprisingly green building. The main shaft will be high-strength concrete. Steel framework will create the interior, including the observation deck. In addition there will be quality glazing through. Two of the walls will be green, making the eco-friendly footprint of the building even bigger.

The architects, Foster + Partners, aim to achieve an excellent BREEAM rating. To do this the design will feature system technologies to save 42% of the carbon and 48% water. The latter will be possible by recycling resources for irrigation. There will also be bicycle parking spaces, encouraging people to cycle when they visit.

The planning application has already been submitted. If the local council grant permission work could begin in 2020. Therefore the Tulip could be complete in 2025.

Coffey Architects would be excited to see the building take shape. It is a large scale project with great green credentials. It could have an impact on the industry, showing what it is possible to do with good design.

If you would like to discuss any element of green design with us, please get in touch.