The Officers’ House Royal Arsenal, AHMM Woolwich Building Photos, South London Brick Architecture
The Officers’ House, Royal Arsenal
31 March 2022
Design: Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM), architects
Location: Royal Arsenal, Woolwich, South London, England, UK
The Officers’ House, Royal Arsenal
AHMM were appointed in late 2015 to redevelop a dilapidated Grade II listed barracks at Royal Arsenal, Woolwich. The brief sought to retain ‘The Officers’ House’ (Block-A) and develop additional housing within a new, ‘twin’ block (Block-B) running parallel to it.
The Officers’ House, Royal Arsenal, London
Block-A was originally built in 1740 and refaced in 1855-6. The existing building required extensive refurbishment to prevent structural collapse, this being achieved through the introduction of new bracing into the floor and walls at third floor level.
Externally new brickwork was carefully incorporated into the existing envelope to match the Flemish-bonded, London stock brickwork. Original features such as the porch, pediments, extensive leadwork and arch-topped gable windows were repaired.
Block-B was constructed by prefabricated modular units which were then clad with load bearing masonry brickwork. The overall scale of this new block was guided by that of Block-A, however the scale and proportion of Block-B’s elevations also needed to create an enlivened backdrop to the new public square it overlooks. Flemish bond was chosen for the new brickwork with expressed dark brick headers providing an overall pattern to the facades. Achieving the structural support required for the large cantilevered balconies was challenging however apartment modules incorporated the necessary support to facilitate a flawless result.
Both Blocks A and B are connected by an external walkway spanning between buildings. The detailing of openings for structure and services within both the original and new building required a robust, honest approach and achieved a unique courtyard environment for residents.
Bricks: Ibstock
Dipa judge comments
Officers house
This project is a skilful solution lovingly retaining a historical listed building and combining it with a new building addition. Quality homes have been created using a mixture of traditional and modern methods of construction. It has been well implemented in a crafted manned using honesty and integrity. The final result is a joyful juxtaposition of old and new.
The Officers’ House, Royal Arsenal, images / information received from the Brick Awards
Location: Woolwich, London, England, UK
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