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Apartments

Elegant Apartment Retreat

A transformative residential development project in Sandford-on-Thames, River House stands as a beacon of quality and design excellence, while addressing the crucial need for small scale homes in the local area of south Oxford. 

From its humble beginnings as a three-bed detached bungalow, we undertook a strategic three-phase planning approach alongside planning consultants, Carter Jonas, Oxford, to make best use of available Permitted Development rights, culminating in a successful consent for a series of eight high-quality, modern apartments with a total floor area of approx. 503sqm - an uplift of more than three times the original size, that fully unlocked the development potential of the site and maximised value for our client.

Drawing inspiration from the local architecture, the size, scale and form of the development has been designed to sit harmoniously in context and respect the amenities enjoyed by neighbouring properties. Strategically arranged pitched roof forms and modest massing reduce the perceived scale of the building, fostering a strong connection with the adjacent traditional dwellings lining the street.

The careful selection of materials further ensures the development sits comfortably within the established local fabric. A blend of acrylic render and red brickwork, all under a slate roof, closely mirror the traditional building stock in the vicinity. Coupled with the thoughtful articulation of the architectural form, this combination allows the development to fit sympathetically into its surroundings. Beyond the building, the enhancement of landscaped boundaries and green spaces fosters a blend of nature and architecture, creating a welcoming environment for residents and passersby alike.

The project's completion in August 2022 marked not only the realisation of our client's vision but also the beginning of a new chapter. Now owned by an overseas client, the property underwent a secondary transformation in collaboration with Anne Haimes and now features a carefully curated interiors scheme, expertly crafted joinery from Langstaff-Ellis, and stunning internal, glazed and frameless fire door from AR Glass Ltd. The property stands as a testament to adaptability and enduring design quality, while contributing to the ongoing vitality of the local area.

Project Details
Project Name River House
Project Reference 22052
Planning Consultant Carter Jonas
Main Contractor Ray Hessey Ltd
Structural Engineer OMK Design
Interior Design Anne Haimes
Photography © Lucy Walters