In September 2020, amid the Covid-19 pandemic, a significant renovation project commenced on Hempstalls Lane, reaching completion in May 2022. Originally thought to have served as barracks for the British army during WW2, the building later transitioned into a combination of offices and workshops in the post-World War II era. It offered crucial services, such as electronics repair and photography under the name Photopia, until its closure in February 2019.
The project commenced in April 2021, with the ambitious goal of renovating the derelict building into a modern apartment complex. The initial stages involved the removal of old office spaces and the implementation of a two-story steel frame to create additional units.
Extensive structural works were undertaken, with heavy steel beams salvaging the structure and facilitating the creation of our new accommodations. A new staircase was installed, alongside extensive groundworks to create 26 parking bays.
Upon completion, Hempstalls Court emerged comprising 29 high-standard apartments.
The hallways and common areas showcases a modern layout, characterized by aesthetically pleasing oak-wood doors, luxurious LVT flooring and charming glass balustrades.
The bathroom boasts bright wall tiles that contrast beautifully with the rich, dark flooring. Complete with modern amenities such as a rainfall shower, polished chrome heated towel racks, and a streamlined vanity with under storage space, it offers both convenience and style.
The contemporary waterfall basin also adds a touch of class to the space.
The bedroom features expansive open spaces also boasting grey and white walls with modern feature walls, maintaining consistency with the apartment's interior design.
The lighting fixtures illuminate the rooms, while low windows allow natural light to filter in. Digital radiators are also seamlessly integrated, adding to the room's contemporary appeal.
Originally conceived as a build-to-rent scheme, Hempstalls Court still remains dedicated to providing high-quality accommodation to its tenants. The first residents, predominantly local working professionals including doctors and nurses, moved in at the beginning of 2023. Managed as a fully tenanted block of 29 flats, the building has become a cornerstone of the community, offering modern living spaces that honour its already rich history.
Today, Hempstalls Court goes down as another successful project in which a historic structure has undergone redevelopment and been repurposed as affordable, local housing, all while retaining its historical elements and embracing the demands and appeal of modern living. Hempstalls Court is fully retained and tenanted by DBR, and it marks a significant testament to the success the business has found in mixing preservation of heritage and modern designs. The building is currently grossing almost £300k per annum and it stands as one of DBR's largest developments undertaken to date. More Photos
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