Retaining the existing front area and the restoration of the surviving wrought iron railing fragments and granite plinth allows for a continuity with the urban datum provided by the existing railings and plinth of no 85 and retains a ‘palimpset’ of the historic architecture of the terrace embedded in the new house while the slight separation between front door / façade and street afforded by this retention also enhances an understanding of the spatial dynamics of the 18th century town house terrace.

The new house incorporates elements of mid 18th century spatial design (in particular of circulation) into the overall building:

In this instance the gradation of public space through to private space is reinterpreted in section with the establishment of the living room on a slightly taller first floor ‘Piano Nobile’, accessed via a series of increasingly private spaces starting with the very public double height primary stair hall, (itself referring to mid 18th century models with its decorative ground to first floor stair and gallery) leading through to a slightly more private reception room at ground level with gradations of privacy established vertically through the building, ending in a double height mezzanine bedroom / study with its own private terrace screened from adjoining properties by limed oak pillars.

The design also anticipates gradations of private open space throughout the building in which, rather than centralising open space in a single location, a series of private open spaces are established, each of which relates to particular spaces or uses such as guest bedrooms, master bedroom, Piano Nobile etc.

The interlocking of basement, ground and first floors and their relationship with the rear first floor terrace garden ensures that in all parts of the building there is an ‘awareness’ of nearby planting.

Balconies and terraces are screened from the adjacent properties and a considerable effort has been made to avoid transgressing roof and parapet heights. In addition, the depth of development above ground level is restricted to that of the original building shown on historic mapping.

Materials chosen for the proposed new dwelling reflect a high quality development: structural glass, steel and aluminium framing, limed oak and glazed façade tiling are the predominant external palette.

The decision to use a glazed cladding tile to the front and rear facades is intended as a modern day response to the modular character of the 18th and 19th century brick but also to provide a brighter aspect to this part of North King Street which presents a dark and shabby appearance.

The design is highly sensitive to the historic environment and makes every effort to avoid adverse impact upon the existing built and urban heritage such that the proposed development represents a positive impact upon the special categories of interest of both 85 and 87 North King Street and upon their conservation values.