Spitalfields, London E1
Many projects have to contend with more than just planning laws and building regulations.
This client’s house was built in 1730 in the Spitalfields area of London, which is also the home of a vibrant market that flourishes to this day.
The house sits at the heart of a conservation area, and in addition to being Grade II* listed our client’s property was subject to controlling covenants by the Spitalfields Trust.
So as well as navigating a route through local planning, Aylesford managed negotiations with conservation bodies and English Heritage. We also appointed a professional team with each member chosen for their long experience and expertise in historic buildings and the demands they bring.
The team then worked up sensitive and detailed proposals to bring about a full restoration of this important 18th century property.
Mayfair, London W1
One of London’s finest town houses in one of London’s finest squares – you can imagine Aylesford was proud to be selected for this complex multi-million pound project.
This beautifully located property is Grade II* listed and therefore demanded expert, meticulous and sensitive project design and planning.
The task, which had a timeline of several years, included the acquisition of the principal house and additional mews houses to the rear; appointing a carefully selected team; completing proposals; and securing planning and listed building consent.
Our scheme provided for a sensitive restoration of the listed house and mews properties giving 31,000 sq.ft. of the highest standard of accommodation, as well as a swimming pool, garaging and staff and guest quarters.
Originally built in the 1720s, the house has a rich history. It was a private residence which was later extended in the 1850s, and again in 1910 as the office of a private bank (to which a mighty safe in the basement, with steel walls a metre thick, bears witness).
Aylesford managed every aspect of this project. This even included consulting an adviser to the British Museum in specifying an environmental control system that is suitable for antique furniture and works of art.
West Dean, East Sussex
Heading south towards the coast sits a very fine manor house at West Dean that dates back to Norman times.
In addition to the main house, the property comprises guest and lodge cottages, a dovecote listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, and an historic long barn.
Aylesford was appointed to work with the owners on a phased programme. This involved a comprehensive restoration of the Grade II * listed Manor House, together with conversion and upgrading of a large cottage for guests, and restoration of the dovecote (a scheduled ancient monument) and refurbishment of a pair of lodge cottages for staff. The estate includes a Long Barn and Clockhouse that now benefit from a detailed conservation-led programme of repair and maintenance.
The project required careful planning; negotiations with English Heritage, local planning and conservation departments; archaeological and environmental studies, together with skilled management of logistics since the owners remained in residence during the programme of works
St. John's Wood, London NW6
We carried out this project on the instructions of the owner of an apartment, with the brief to acquire further units, enhance the portfolio and meet the client’s investment and long-term estate-planning objectives.
Following the acquisition of the flats above and below his existing property, the programme comprised maintenance and enhancements to both the building and the apartments. The client retained one of the apartments and Aylesford advised on investment management, with a variety of options to enhance value in the future.
Our project management team handled all aspects of the project, including consents from landlords and statutory bodies; planning, conservation and building regulations; appointing a carefully selected professional team; and managing the scheme from inception to completion.