EPR Architects and MRG Studio appointed at 220 Blackfriars Road
JTRE London has unveiled award-winning EPR Architects as the main architect and interior architect and MRG Studios as the landscape architect for the landmark 220 Blackfriars Road, which is being delivered in partnership with Southwark Charities.
EPR Architects is behind some of the capital’s most iconic development projects in recent years, celebrated for breathing new life into the Old War Office Building in London’s Whitehall district and designing the sensitive conversion and restoration of a Grade II-listed Bow Street Magistrates’ Court building into luxury lifestyle hotel NoMad London in Covent Garden. The firm has also designed OSMO Battersea in Nine Elms, which was designed with sustainability, wellness and reconnecting with nature at its core.
The pioneering new scheme at 220 Blackfriars Road was originally designed for planning by Fathom Architects and MRG Studio, and has already won an award in the Housing category at the NLA New London Awards. The scheme will transform the site and more than double the number of existing almhouses as well as creating a range of community spaces including a community centre and gardens. At ground level, a new space for a restaurant or café will create an attractive active frontage that welcomes the community.
The development truly embraces all aspects of ESG, but also leads the way in its Social Impact. The offices will be Net Zero Carbon in operation and is designed to meet WELL Gold Building standards, targeting NABERS 5 to 5.5 rating, as well as targeting Platinum Smart Score and Wired Score; the highest level achievable. The combined landscape at street level and on the roof terraces will deliver 11,500 sq. ft. of new planting and more than 50 new trees, a Biodiversity Net Gain of 126% and Urban Greening Factor of 0.44 across the whole site, surpassing GLA targets for residential development by 10% and commercial by 46%. The creation of a new London garden square will be enjoyed by residents and the wider community alike. The Almshouses will provide truly affordable residential accommodation with high quality amenity space akin to prime London residential developments. The Charity Hub will offer office space for the voluntary and charity sector at a significantly discounted rent of c.80%.
Nigel Fleming, Managing Director at JTRE London, comments: “We are delighted to have appointed EPR Architects and MRG Studio to bring 220 Blackfriars Road to life, creating an exemplar scheme that combines best-in-class office space with much needed affordable almshouses. Both EPR Architects and MRG Studio have an outstanding record for delivering exceptional development projects, and their appointment reflects our commitment to working with the best partners in the industry.
“The non-material amendment agreement we have just had approved will further enhance the commercial offering with outside space on all but one floor, as well as enhanced amenities to make a market leading offering in central London. With two extra almhouse units we’re also increasing the social value of the development, offering truly affordable living for local people.”
Chris Castle, Managing Director of EPR Architects, comments: “We are thrilled to collaborate with JTRE London on this exemplary development in the heart of Blackfriars. The project presents a rare opportunity to enhance the area's public realm while crafting a thoughtful, characterful, and class-leading office building that will attract a new generation of talent to add to the rich history of London's creative hub. We are also honoured to contribute to the community by creating 64 Almshouses for Southwark Charities, carrying forward the remarkable legacy of Edward Edwards' charitable housing on the site.”
Jennifer Mui, MRG’s Studio Director, added: “Having been part of the team who developed the scheme towards the original planning consent, we are excited to continue now with JTRE London, EPR Architects and the wider team to serve Southwark Charities and the local community in delivering this biodiverse and sustainable landscape.”
