Blayds Mews

The proposal converts two redundant office buildings, 9 and 11 Blayds Mews, into seven one bedroom, three storey Mews houses. The buildings are located in the heart of the city centre adjacent to the railway viaduct.  Their central location hidden behind existing retail and entertainment venues makes them a perfect location for small urban living. The design maximises the potential accommodation by relocating and reconfiguring the access to an adjacent office building, moving the shared staircase. Each three-storey mews house has its own front door and a protected entrance area to encourages residents to take ownership and inhabit the mews. The inclusion of homes into the mews will dramatically alter its appearance making it a significantly more attractive place.

The design proposal is considerate of the c.1800 historic setting and aims to improve the context of the three adjoining Grade II listed structures which were originally three houses and workshops.

The proposed mews houses work with the existing buildings structure and elevations, utilising existing openings, enlarging where necessary to provide entrances, access and balconies. Additional new openings consider the existing window pattern. New windows and doors are designed to match the existing windows and fenestration which is to be repaired. New balconies become a key feature of the elevation with every unit benefiting from amenity space. The existing roof structure is maintained on 11 Blayds Mews, whilst three individual roof terraces are proposed to 9 Blayds Mew which accommodates three units.

The proposed rooftop amenity space has minimal impact on the view from the street with the eaves line maintained and the leading edge reading as a simple grey trim and planting.