Design approach
What is the best design approach in an area with a long visual historic architectural span and mixed range of property types? Preserving sightlines and the peaceful atmosphere provided by the churchyard are crucial. Non-visual references are equally important.
Appropriate design is not simply about harmonising with the existing streetscape or respecting established building heights. It’s about utilising materials that echo the area’s rich architectural heritage and respecting the distinct characteristics that demand thoughtful consideration in any new development or renovation project. In this area, the small-scale units of 2-4 storeys blend within the fine-grained, once-narrow historic streets to create a unique atmosphere. The presence of a churchyard adds a touch of tranquillity. The street furniture on St Mary Butts plays a pivotal role in this context, encouraging people to linger and engage with their surroundings. It becomes a facilitator of social interaction and community cohesion.
What is most valued?
The mix of housing types in these areas suggests a diverse community with varying needs and lifestyles. An informal market atmosphere, especially notable in the Hosier Street area, highlights the mixed-use nature of this location. Combining terraced shops and commercial spaces, Hosier Street calls for designs that respect this diversity and maintain a long-standing tradition of community gathering and local commerce. New designs should aim to support independent local businesses with options for integrated living, incorporating flexible ground-floor spaces that can accommodate a variety of small enterprises. These spaces need to be adaptable to changing needs over time and support modern interpretations of market activities or community events.
Potential references to timber framing and judicious use of modern render can complement the dynamic streetscape of Hosier Street. The curved nature of Gun Street, with its mix of timber-frame, brick, and stone construction materials, offers a palette for sympathetic design choices. The design focus here is creating a sense of discovery and encouraging exploration, achieved through subtle variations in façade treatments or by framing views as pedestrians move through the space. Castle Street in Reading also presents an additional unique urban-to-suburban transition that requires careful design consideration to deliver public-to-private interactions.
Highlighting key characteristics
It’s often about distinguishing the most important three or four characteristics rather than mixing more minor characteristics. Good design concepts should reflect a historic integration of living, working, and socialising. By considering these non-visible aspects of character, designers can create spaces that not only look appropriate but also continue the authentic atmosphere of the place.
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