DESCRIPTION

This project was for a mid-Victorian villa of 1863, attributed to Arthur Blomfield, which forms part of a distinctive group of large houses set within generous gardens on the north side of Richmond Park. The building is locally listed and sits within the Christ Church Conservation Area and within a sensitive townscape defined by mature trees, strong boundary treatments and individually designed houses.

Over time, a series of twentieth-century alterations have diluted the architectural coherence of the original house and compromised its plan form and energy performance. The proposals sought to rationalise and replace these elements, focusing change on areas already altered and of limited historic value. New extensions and replacement structures draw directly on the language, proportions and materials of the original villa and its early additions, reinstating a clearer hierarchy and a more legible relationship between house and garden. Alongside this, replacement fenestration, roof alterations and landscape works enhance both functionality and appearance, while preserving the spacious, verdant character that defines Christchurch Road.

“Working with Whaleback was a genuinely collaborative process. Their understanding of heritage policy, local character and risk was sharp and pragmatic, allowing the design to develop with confidence. Advice was clear, timely and proportionate, helping us shape a scheme that was both ambitious and robust. It felt like a true partnership, with planning considerations informing design rather than constraining it”