Fleck Architecture

Morritt House, Harrow Road, Wembley, HA0 4XD

Enlargement to existing refuse and recycling store, installation of bicycle parking enclosure and associated permeable paving

Morritt House, Harrow Road, Wembley, HA0 4XD

Prior approval for the construction of new dwellinghouses on a detached block of flats: Construction of a total of 8 no. 1 person, 1 bedroom flats on the 4th and 5th floor of a 4 storey purpose built block of flats. The proposals adopt a contemporary reinterpretation approach to the development of Morritts House. The scale and general form proposed has been designed to reflect and enhance the proportions and symmetry of the existing building. The width and articulation of existing windows are reflected in the proposed fenestration of the additional floors. The plan steps in on the south facade to accommodate private external amenity space and provide visual interest to the facade. High quality facing materials such as standing seam zinc cladding are proposed to provide a clean and contemporary finish. In addition, the lighter tone and greater reflectivity of the zinc will contrast with the earthy tones, solidity and light absorptive properties of the existing brickwork below. New balustrades will be of minimalist design avoiding hefty posts and clunky connection details thereby providing a neat and light aesthetic. Windows to the proposed flats will have powder coated metal frames recessed by a minimum of 80mm from the building facade. Flashings will be in Zinc to match the standing seam colour. All of the flats are dual aspect and incorporate a good proportion of glazing as illustrated on the accompanying plans and elevations. These features will provide good levels of natural light in all habitable rooms and will aid natural ventilation of the flats.