The Grapes, High Street, Sutton
Site work is underway following the consent given (2020) for the conversion and extension of the existing three storey former public house (for 26 new flats). The proposals included the change of use of existing first and second floor and part ground floor to residential. To the rear, there will be a new part three, part four and part five storey over the current building, on the Benhill Avenue front.
Our heritage and design consultancy services provided independent judgement and support on the proposals for this locally listed building in Sutton High Street. As it is sited in the centre of the newly designated ‘Heritage Action Zone’, Sutton required an assessment of the architectural and historical significance of the town centre.
Our townscape assessment formed part of the planning submission, showing the Council how the new design is in scale and the massing and appearance does not harm the character of the local heritage asset. Rhythms and patterns which define the High Street were identified so as to suggest design cues influenced by heritage context.
Externally, the existing nineteenth century section of the building is finished in a dark painted brick to the ground floor, which contrasts the light render finish of the upper floors. It is fitting then that the basis for the proposed is to create extensions that are in keeping with the retained historic structure of the former public house.
The design concept balances a classical and formal approach to the treatment of the façade, with reference to the symmetrical and formal rhythm taken from the host building as well as from historical shops on the High Street. It is important that the scheme does not dwarf the character of the adjacent Victorian parades but rather creates an effect of aligning with these good examples of local architecture. Indeed, whilst three new storeys are added, the architectural character of this corner building will continue round onto the long elevation. This means the historic ground floor fascia would be a definition of the side elevation and the distinctive window parts are to be incorporated along the new façade.
The slate mansard roof on the third and fourth floors is also thought to create a visual break in the aesthetic of the façade and help the building remain proportional. Sutton and consultees such as Historic England acknowledged that the basis for the new design was to create an extension that is in keeping with the retained historic structure of the former public house.
In summary, the scheme refers well to the character of the historic pub and utilises the dimensions, scale and materials which aspire to make no 198 a distinctive building.