504 Bristol Rd is a brand-new development located in Selly Oak, Birmingham, and is only a stone's throw from the University of Birmingham. This amazing new build scheme consists of offices, retail and multilevel prestigious student accommodation of 70 self-contained luxury studios and has various internal and external communal spaces including study pods and a large courtyard. It is arranged over 4 floors, with the ground floor given over for retail purposes, and the fifth floor largely glazed and setback. The shape and design of the building in this project make it unique and innovative. The building was designed with reference to the historical character of the site and with respect to shipbuilding. This is clearly translated in its built form, massing and the materials used. The development has provided direct employment opportunities and increased economic activity through the new ground floor town centre uses. Both supporting and enhancing existing business activities in the immediate vicinity and acting as a catalyst for further regeneration projects along this stretch of High Street within Selly Oak.
The construction of 504 Bristol Rd was a very complex project to construct due to the unusual shapes and forms adopted and the location of the site. It is 3,193 m2 is arranged over four floors, with the ground floor given over for retail purposes, and the fifth floor largely glazed and setback. The design for this scheme was very exciting as the challenge we faced was to provide a building of an architectural merit that was equal to the existing Victorian building that occupied the site. The site analysis, existing building massing, forgotten history and historical signposts as well as the character of the site such as, oak, layering, projections of existing buildings, bay windows, various windows sizes, proportions and vertical and horizontal relationship, have all played a key role in shaping the building form and character. The inverted and skewed brickwork and window detailing derived from an inverted traditional Victorian bay window. The layering also took a strong cue from the Victorian layering and articulation of façade treatment with vertical and horizontal alignments.
The conical form turning the corner was inspired by vessel building which happened near the site. The internal layout of the studios is to allow students, an open plan and independent space. The bed space and study area are located nearest the window to allow natural light to be utilised during the day and there is plenty of storage combined with personal ensuite shower room facilities, some come with a luxury bath, and a fully fitted kitchen. The development has good standards of natural light and ventilation. Window sizes are larger than traditional residential housing to allow increased daylight levels and maximize passive solar gains. The development has led to a significant and material improvement in the appearance of the site and the street scene by virtue of its modern, contemporary design and the use of quality materials. It is equally a striking addition to what has been for many years a tired and deteriorating urban street scene in Selly Oak. 504 Bristol Road development provides a new level of much-needed contemporary student accommodation within the student village of Selly Oak providing all the necessary facilities on site - thus creating a luxurious environment for students to thrive.
Stay in touch:
