Russell Road

Paired mansion blocks line this narrow site along a railway viaduct in east London. Due to the viaduct proximity an enclosed access deck faces the railway providing security and an acoustic buffer, with single and dual aspect apartments overlooking the street. Duplex units are proposed at ground level to provide family homes with gardens adjacent to the brick viaduct. A pocket park divides the two blocks, providing communal amenity space with bin and bike stores and an entrance forecourt shared by both blocks.

The designs were informed by Transport for London guidance, regarding offset distance from the train viaduct and viaduct, access, inspection and maintenance requirements.

Although the operating times are restricted on this rail line, and train speed is limited, noise is an important consideration, the block therefore fuctions as a buffer to the homes to the west of the site.

Creating two blocks maximises 3 aspect corner units and provideds a communal forecourt, intensifying overlooking and activity over the entrances

View north from Lea Bridge Road north along Rusell Road.

London Master Bakers Almshouses lie to the east of the railway viaduct. The heritage importance, limiting impact on the historic skyline was acknowledged as shown in the view of the development from the east.

Aerian view looking south along Russell Road, showing a local pocket park to the north.

Given the site constraints, maintenance and buildability was central to the proposals which included creating a buffer zone to the north and south.

Due to the railway viaduct proximity and the narrow site footprint, the proposed layout has principle windows facing the street with access and corridors to the east creating a buffer zone.

Aerial view showing the block arrangement and the provision of a pocket park between the blocks, creating an arrival point for both blocks as well as consolidating service access and site security.

Ground floor plan showing paired cores at the centre whic allows for two clusters of duplex family homes with own front doors and private gardens.

First floor plan, showing second duplex level and 2 bed apartment above the entrance overlooking the entrance forecourt.

Typical upper floor plan - 4 two bed apartments and 4 one bed single aspect west facing apartments.