Levitt Bernstein have created a development of high quality affordable housing for Origin Housing on a challenging site on the edge of London.
The site in Barnet, adjacent to the 6 lane A1 with Green Belt land to the rear, originally comprised two smaller plots each with separate planning consents for very traditional schemes with small units. Levitt Bernstein amalgamated the sites with a new planning consent and higher quality homes with space standards generally exceeding the London Housing Design Guide.
The A1 Apartments offers 29 Affordable Homes (social rented 83%, shared ownership 17%). The rented and shared ownership homes have been welcomed by Barnet Council as meeting a particular local need for larger units and low-cost home ownership options.
The new development along Great North Way responds to the rhythm of the adjacent detached houses, reinterpreting the bay windows, breaking up the façade with larger bays and wintergardens. The height increases up to a 4 storey corner block which creates a local landmark when approaching from the south. Generous terraces and balconies provide stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The architecture is simple and contemporary, using a palette of traditional and more innovative materials. A high quality local brick was selected for the majority of the facades. At upper levels and at the apartment entrances a distinctive coloured cladding is used. Glazed wintergardens are provided to flats overlooking the A1 to provide a quiet alternative to a balcony, which are proving popular with buyers and tenants.
The A1 Apartments were officially opened by the Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Lisa Rutter on 23rd November 2011.