Client: Cumbrae Limited
Location: Derby City Centre
‘Ashbourne Road Apartments’ is a collection of 10 brand new self-contained flats occupying a prominent corner in the Derby University Quarter.
JSA Architects worked in partnership with long-time client, Cumbrae Limited and local letting agents Blue I Properties, to develop a scheme that meets local housing demand and the Derby City Council planning authority objectives.
Formally a public house, the building is now unfit for modern occupation and cannot compete with the higher standard of living offered by other local developments. Plans include the demolition and rebuild of the existing structure, making better use of the site available. A full detailed planning submission has been made to Derby City Council and is pending consideration.
Architectural Design
The new building design responds directly to the site history, replicating the former pub frontage and recognisable chamfered corner. To the rear, the facade is modernised in sympathetic contrast with a discreet underpassage leading to the private entrances, bike store and refuse collection points. Standing seam cladding distinctly separates the two accommodation blocks and highlights the sites history of development, yet traditional features and styling are consistent throughout; such as 2-over-2 sliding sash windows, dropped keystone lintels and other stone detailing.
Set over 3 storeys, the private apartments enjoy views over Ashbourne Road and Noel Street, with glimpses of Burgess Mill and Britannia Mill further afield. Ashbourne Road is a busy arterial route out of the city centre and the area is popular with students due to the close proximity to key campuses and the town. With the designated conservation area terminating just 100 yards or so closer to the town, this section of the busy road has witnessed a noticeable decline in architectural investment, and it is the hope that the new ‘Ashbourne Road Apartments’ scheme will set a new benchmark for sensitive redevelopment in the area.
Interior Design
Internally, each self-contained apartment measures a minimum of 40m2 and contains a large double bedroom, separate bathroom and studio-style kitchen, dining and living space. These configurations are popular with students and other young professionals that value city-centre living.
Decor is stylish and modern, with traditional details that pay tribute to the site heritage, like ornate cornices, tall skirting profiles and period influenced joinery that frame sash windows.
