Grade II listed, the form of the external concrete frame is claimed to be based on the bending moment diagram, with the hinge points defining points of contra-flexure. These high-quality sculptural forms were pre-cast and finished with Cornish Granite to provide a uniform finish. The proposal will provide a sustainable reuse of the office buildings, which have been vacant for a long period of time due to a lack of demand in office space. The conversion to residential use will provide a second life to the Listed Buildings and help release local family housing and contribute towards the borough’s housing delivery. The proposed residential use is the optimum viable use for the site and the proposals would not have an impact on the Green Belt.
The proposals embrace the character and historic significance of the site, carefully considering the natural natural setting, in particular the trees and green space, reflecting the existing qualities of Hayes Park. In addition to its transference from office to residential dwellings, the scheme will set about to improve the entry sequence, open up the communal space and enhance the setting within the landscape. The external façade will be cleaned and repaired to conserve the building’s iconic form for generations to come. The proposal will reinstate Bunshaft’s original ‘Reflective Pool’ and island with a tree (influenced by a minimalist Japanese garden design). The pool, island and tree, will now act as a focal point to connect residents with each other and nature.
