Pentonville Road

Hamiltons Architects were commissioned to undertake a mixed use development in the London Borough of Islington by the owners of a small printing works on a corner site approx. 500m from Kings Cross Station and its associated regeneration area.

The planners wanted a ‘jewel box’, reflecting the open aspect of the site opposite Grimaldi Park and its listed church, and on a long vista from Pentonville Rise. However, they also wanted the massing to be one floor lower than the earlier applications.

The new proposal incorporated the same number of flats, both private and affordable, but with a greater floor area, one floor less, and to the urban design officers approval. It was given consent last month and goes on site in the New Year. The planning committee were minded to overturn the officers recommendation but the split vote was carried to approval after Hamiltons made their presentation.

The skin of the building is a profiled perforated brass with flush windows – this continues the approach to materiality in Hamiltons housing and urbanism group who produced Brewery Square with its copper and zinc skin.

Flush sliding windows and recessed balconies compliment the seamless facade with frameless glazed shop fronts and penthouse top floor. The facade insulation and shading system obviates the need for air conditioning despite being south facing. The proposal includes insulation and cladding made from recycled material and an integrated ventilation system to reduced the energy requirement for the development. The building will consist of 26 flats, of which 44% will be designated affordable.