It was a busy year for Historic England. They had the task of awarding heritage listings to preserve a number of properties. Impressively, there were 256 new entries. In addition, they had to do amendments to hundreds of listings. As one of the most passionate architects in London, we love to see significant properties get the protection they deserve. So, let’s have a look at some of the newest ones.
An International Modern home
In the 1930s there were plans to build a new seaside resort at Frinton-on-Sea in Tendring, Essex. It was one of the chosen Metro Land suburbs around London. The plans for the 40 acre site were impressive, including modernist homes with white walls and flat roofs. However, only 40 houses came to fruition.
One of the houses in the development got a Grade II listing in March. The property was built in 1935, with a design by Oliver Hill, and has significant architectural and historical value. It also has some lovely original features, including curving walls.
A Carnegie library
Andrew Carnegie is one of the most important figures in library funding history. His grants led to over 2,500 libraries opening in various countries between 1883 and 1929. The capital has 21, many of which are a great inspiration to architects in London.
Wallasey Central Library is a stunning example of a Carnegie library. It dates back to 1911 and has a wonderful symmetrical Edwardian Baroque exterior. Inside, many of the original features remain, including original shelves. As a result, it deservedly got a Grade II listing in November.
Gardens and pleasure grounds
Brownsea Island in Dorset has an interesting history. A fort was built there in 1545-1547 by Henry VIII to protect the harbour at Poole from potential attacks from the French. It fell out of use by the end of the 17th century and then became a private home. Today the National Trust owns Brownsea Castle, but it is operated by the John Lewis Partnership as a corporate hotel.
One of the most impressive things here is the 18th century gardens and pleasure grounds. They began small, but now cover most of the island. They are a beautiful sight to see, with greenery, wildlife, and walking routes. The gardens and grounds got a Grade II listing in July, over 40 years after Brownsea Castle got its own listing.
Arts and Crafts former maternity ward
The 1918 Maternity and Child Welfare Act was a landmark in the provision of healthcare for mothers and children. It gave power to local governments so they could provide essential services. In response, a number of new hospitals and clinics were built.
The Huddersfield Municipal Maternity Home, now the Princess Royal Community Hospital, got a lovely single storey maternity ward in 1928. It has a fantastic Arts and Crafts design, so there is plenty of architectural significance. Inside it also has a number of original fittings and fixtures. It got a Grade II listing in August.
Design with passionate architects in London
Our goal at Coffey Architects is to deliver beautiful designs that can become as timeless and valued as the properties that get heritage listings. We aim to do that for every single client while also ensure the buildings suit their needs. This can be homes, commercial spaces, and even different kinds of public buildings.
So, if you want to work with top architects in London, feel free to reach out. We can’t wait to see what you have in mind and to contribute our ideas.