Location
Acorn Street, Kelham Island
Accommodation
43 one and two-bedroom apartments
Over 200 sqm of ground-floor commercial space
Planning Authority
Sheffield City Council
Status
Planning approved
Our newest Kelham Island project embracing 'gentle density' principles
Nestled in the heart of Kelham Island, Sheffield, Avice is the eighth Crossbow development in the city. It embraces 'gentle density' principles to optimise land use and offers 43 one and two-bedroom homes arranged around a central open-style courtyard. Additionally, the ground floor features three commercial spaces that provide dynamic street frontages, contributing vibrancy to the neighbourhood.
Avice draws inspiration from the area's rich industrial heritage, seamlessly integrating the past with modern living. Adjacent to the church, the building's architectural features take cues from the church's intricate brick detailing and ornate metalwork. Notably, the design pays homage to the iconic Crittall windows, synonymous with the 20th-century factory buildings, flooding the interiors with natural light.
The central courtyard design is reminiscent of the historical layout of 19th-century houses that once graced the site, offering residents a communal space for enjoyment. Despite grappling with viability challenges attributed to escalating construction costs, the dedicated collaboration between the client, design team, and CODA Architecture successfully resolved issues related to construction methods, fire regulations, and rights to light.
The outcome is a financially viable project with planning consent, preserving the original concept and ensuring further regeneration benefits for Kelham Island. Avice stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of contemporary design and heritage preservation in the vibrant neighbourhood.