Plans to restore and convert the former Fenwick building in Leicester city centre were approved last week (22nd February 2019) and will see the landmark building brought back to life with a mixed-use development.
Project partners, developer, Aimrok Holdings Ltd and architects, rg+p applied to transform the former Fenwick building into 111 luxury, short stay serviced apartments together with a rooftop bar, which will become a focal point for the development. On the basement and ground floor, the approved design reconfigures an area of some 30,000 sq ft to include bar, gym, conference rooms, start-up office space and independent commercial units.
Andrew Crainey, managing director, Aimrok Holdings commented: “Our intention has always been to revitalise and restore this building so it remains a significant destination for Leicester. Working closely alongside rg+p, we’ve created a viable and sustainable design which we believe will stand out in the modern marketplace. We’re extremely pleased with the successful outcome of this planning application and now look forward to commencing work transforming this much-loved local landmark.”
The 111 luxury, short stay serviced apartments comprise a mix of studio, one and two bedroom designs and associated amenities such as exercise room, ground floor bar, reception and laundry. A two storey extension to the rear of the building will provide five duplex apartments. All have been designed to bring out the period detail of the building, using existing features wherever possible.
The rooftop bar is formed from a single storey extension and will be available to tenants of the apartments as well as the general public. Plans include space for a roof terrace and semi-enclosed courtyard.
James Badley, director at rg+p commented: “This scheme is designed to honour the building’s history by emphasising some of its period features while simultaneously creating high quality residential and commercial space. We’ve worked closely alongside our heritage consultants and the planning team at Leicester City Council to ensure a seamless blend of old and new. Materials such as copper panelling, stainless steel and powder coated window frames have been incorporated to achieve this.
“Working on this project represents a fantastic opportunity to continue our investment in our home city and we’re pleased to be part of the team transforming this iconic building for the future.”
Andrew added: “This building is of extreme local significance and we’re committed to seeing it sensitively restored into a vibrant place to live and work. Now we have secured a positive planning outcome, work will commence on the first phase, the ground floor and basement, as soon as strip out is complete. We envisage the first units being ready for occupation in approximately 12 months’ time.”
