This fine listed hotel building in Maida Vale was recently granted planning permission at Appeal, for a rooftop extension to create a mansard accommodating more rooms.
The main issue for which we supplied rebuttals, was the effect of the proposal on the architectural or historic significance of the listed building and the character and appearance of the Maida Vale Conservation Area.
The building occupies a corner site between Warrington Crescent and Randolph Avenue. It’s architectural significance comes from the grandness of the mouldings, particularly around the main entrance onto Warrington Crescent where. There are also decorative columns and panels here. Our rebuttals showed how the appeal building is different in its architectural treatment and roofline from other buildings in its context.
Mindful of the nature of the proposal in the addition of a further storey of guest accommodation, it was appropriate to consider the contribution that the present roof arrangements made to its significance. Whilst the sky-line provided by the pediments and parapets is a feature of some significance, it is the architecture of the 2 main façades which creates the visual importance.
In relation to the group, including 3 other corner villas, the appeal building already stands alone in its detailing and use and the addition would not alter that unity. Due to its set back, colour and limited additional overall height compared with the present roof, the addition would not be visually intrusive, and the addition of lighter dormers would not alter that perception. The proposed use of a mansard on this building would be sympathetic to its existing proportions and suit the architectural character .
The addition of the mansard and the raising of the chimney stacks would give the building a greater, but subtle presence on the road junction; the resulting greater height over the neighbouring terrace would emphasise the importance of the location.
The Inspector concluded that the proposal would not cause harm to the architectural and historic significance of the listed building or to the character and appearance of the conservation area and would accord with Local Policies.