The Crafts Council, 44A Road, London, N1 9BY

DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT including a Heritage Status Assessment August 2017

AOC AOC Architecture DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Contents

Introduction

Site Claremont Hall 1.0 HERITAGE STATUS ASSESSMENT Address 44a Pentonville Road 1.1 Introduction London, N1 9BY 1.2 Historic significance of Claremont Hall in the immediate locality 1.3 Architectural and townscape description Client Crafts Council 1.4 Current proposals Address 44a Pentonville road 1.5 Conclusions Islington London, N1 9BY 2.0 DESIGN PROCESS Contact Andy McGlynn, Development Director Tel. 0207 806 2520 2.1 Original Brief Email [email protected] 2.2 Assessment .1 Physical context Agent AOC Architecture Ltd .2 Historical context Address 24-28 Pritchards Road .3 Planning and policy context London, E2 9AP 2.3 Involvement: a shared conversation Contact Martha Rawlinson, Architectural Assistant 2.4 Evaluation Tel. 02077399950 Email [email protected] 3.0 DESIGN PROPOSAL

3.1 Use 3.2 Amount 3.3 Layout 3.4 Scale 3.5 Appearance (incl. hard landscape) 3.6 Site boundaries 3.7 Accessibility 3.8 Sustainability

4.0 APPENDIX

4.1 Structural Engineers Drawing

AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 2 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Introduction

This is a Design and Access Statement in support of a formal planning application for consent to make external and internal modifications to Claremont Hall, a Grade 2 listed building, including: 1. Removal of modern non-compliant access ramps, steps and balustrading in forecourt and construction of new pre-cast concrete sloping and stepped access. 2. Removal of material along rear external passage and raising of floor level to create sloped level access path. 3. External doorway to passage raised in height to accord with new level access way. 4. Interior works to remove modern (1991) partitions, suspended ceiling, and raised floor to reveal original hardwood parquet flooring.

The Statement demonstrates how the proposals have emerged through a thorough design process: • developing the brief • understanding the physical, historical and policy context • deriving clear design principles • developing high quality design proposals in response

Applications for major development, as defined in article 2 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure (England) Order 2015 require a Design and Access Statement to be produced and submitted. Birdseye view of Claremont Hall in context In line with the National Planning Policy Framework, this statement demonstrates AOC’s commitment to delivering the highest quality of design, and explains the design and access principles that have informed the development.

Claremont Hall is a converted chapel located on Pentonville Road, which forms part of the , and sits on the boundary of the zone. The site is well serviced by on the Northern line, and several major bus routes. Pedestrian access to the site is via a set of black painted wrought iron gates, visitors pass through a sloped forecourt before ascending to the main entrance on a raised terrace. This terrace is currently accessed either via a set of steps, or a non-compliant ramp configuration. The two storey building is set back from the busy main road, and the existing entrance comprises a black painted timber door and a glazed lobby area.

The Crafts Council at Claremont Hall in January 2017

AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 3 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Heritage Status Assessment Heritage Status Assessment

HERITAGE STATEMENT FOR CLAREMONT HALL, 44A PENTONVILLE ROAD, LONDON 1.1 INTRODUCTION Abstract AOC were commissioned to develop plans for Claremont Hall in January 2017. Research and site visits for this PPS5 Statement were carried out during January and February 2017. Paragraph 128 of the NPPF states that: “In determining applications, local planning authorities should require an applicant to describe the significance of any This statement is written to inform the Planning Authority and the Planning process. This statement has followed a heritage assets affected, including any contribution made by their setting. The level of detail should beproportionate number of steps in order to analyse significance and is written with reference to Planning Policy Statement 5: to the assets’ importance and no more than is sufficient to understand the potential impact of the proposal on their “Regional and local planning authorities should ensure that they have evidence about the historic environment significance.” “Regional and local planning authorities should ensure that they have evidence about the historic environment and heritage assets in their area and that this is publicly documented. The level of detail of the evidence should be proportionate and sufficient to inform adequately the plan-making process.” In order to meet this requirement, this Design and Access Statement includes a Heritage Statement, prepared to proportionate and sufficient to inform adequately the plan-making process.” inform and accompany the proposals affecting the heritage assets detailed within.

Paragraph 126 states; “Local planning authorities should set out in their Local Plan a positive strategy for the conservation and enjoyment of 1.2 HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE OF CLAREMONT HALL IN THE IMMEDIATE LOCALITY the historic environment1, including heritage assets most at risk through neglect, decay or other threats. In doing so, Claremont Hall is grade II listed as a building of special architectural or historic interest and was built in the early they should recognise that heritage assets are an irreplaceable resource and conserve them in a manner appropriate to nineteenth century, as a chapel their significance. In developing this strategy, local planning authorities should take into account: . Although the perimeter wall dates from then - and is marked with a stone saying ‘1666’ - most of the remaining original building is concealed, as the facade was built in the mid-eigtheenth century, and the wings were added at • the desirability of sustaining and enhancing the significance of heritage assets and putting them to viable uses a later date. consistent with their conservation • the wider social, cultural, economic and environmental benefits that conservation of the historic environment can 1842-19521842-1952 Ordnance Ordnance Survey London Survey London In the late nineteenth century, we are told, the building was in use as a private preparatory school for boys. bring • the desirability of new development making a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness; and In 1915 Langley Hall became the new home of the Actors’ Orphanage, for children of theatrical parents where one opportunities to draw on the contribution made by the historic environment to the character of a place” or both parents had died. Noel Coward was as its President and visited on a number of occasions. The Orphanage stayed on the site until 1938 before the children were evacuated to America during the Blitz. Claremont Hall on Pentonville Road, London is grade II listed as a building of special architectural or historic stayed on the site until 1938 before the children were evacuated to America during the Blitz. interest and was built in the early nineteenth century, as a chapel. It opened for worship in 1819 and is considered In the 1940s Langley Hall was used as the RAF Group HQ of Bomber Command and the flat-roofed “Bunker’ was to be the most ambitious and architecturally significant non-conformist chapel of the early C19 in the Borough of In the 1940s Langley Hall was used as the RAF Group HQ of Bomber Command and the flat-roofed “Bunker’ was built. In 1955 the Ministry of Transport Road Research department were based in the building, for a short period. Islington. Over the last two centuries the building has been through many modifications and changes of use. In built. In 1955 the Ministry of Transport Road Research department were based in the building, for a short period. the 1890’s it was used as a Mission Station, then from the 1960’s as a commercial showroom for dental equipment, Following many years of dereliction, Bucks County Council purchased the building in the early 1970s and converted before being opened to the public by the Crafts Council as a gallery space from 1991 to 2006. Following many years of dereliction, Bucks County Council purchased the building in the early 1970s and converted it for use as a college, residential home and day centre. However, in 1972 the interior was gutted by fire. Since then Langley Hall has been used for a variety of educational uses, with minor adaptations made to the building to create Any enhancement of this building is to be welcomed for the positive effect it will have on the historic surroundings Langley Hall has been used for a variety of educational uses, with minor adaptations made to the building to create the most appropriate learning environments. and setting of this Grade II listed building. This report is written to form the basis of discussions surrounding the the most appropriate learning environments. continued use of the Hall and the surrounding land within its curtilage.

1.1 INTRODUCTION TO HERITAGE STATEMENT

AOC were commissioned to develop plans for The Crafts Council’s “Common Place for Craft” in December 2016. Research and site visits for this statement were carried out between January and March 2017.

1893-18961893-1896 Ordnance Ordnance Survey London Survey London This statement is written to inform the Planning Authority and the Planning process. This statement has followed a 1893-1896 Ordnance Survey London number of steps in order to analyse significance and is written with reference to Part 12 of the NPPF.

AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement 3 The Crafts Council Pre-application Report by AOC tel. 0207 739 9950 3 4 The Crafts Council Pre-application Report by AOC www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] Labeled photograph of the main elevation of Claremont Hall.

Modillioned Cornice

Cornice Dentil Entablature Foliated Scrolled Freize

Rusticated Quoins Consoles

Egg and Dart Cornice Prarie Style glazing

Architrave Sill with brackets Ionic Capital Open Pediment Abacus

Patarae Volute Keystone Entasis (curvature) Architrave

Fanlight Column (shaft) Pilaster Vermiculated Rustication

Victorian Style Baluster (1990s) Dado

Base Torus

Prostyle pedimented bay Portico

AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 5 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] BUILDING TIME LINE

1818 Former silk mercer and ribbon manufacturer Thomas Wilson of Highbury acquired the freehold of tye two-acre site on the New Road in Pentonville from Martha Young and her family, for about £700. He then spent £6,000 building the chapel on part of it. Architect not certain; possibly Andrew or John Blyth, or John or William Wallen.

1819 Claremont Chapel opened for worship in October.

1840s Various alterations and repairs made 1.2 HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE OF CLAREMONT HALL IN THE IMMEDIATE LOCALITY The timeline on the left collects and organises the story of the building, from purchase of the land, through to the 1847 Sunday school added at the rear. present day. From 1819 until the 1890s the Chapel served the localilty as a place of worship. It was then used as a mission station for several years, providing classes and special services and concerts for different local groups. 1853-4 Sash windows of wood and cast-iron installed in the galleries In 1960 it became a dental equipment showroom with the Sunday School at the back used as a workshop for 1854–5 Approach to the chapel improved by adding a stuccoed balustrade and terrace either side of the construction of the equipment. It came into use by the Crafts Council in 1990. entrance steps. The gallery of the Crafts Council has been closed since 2006; its planned reopening intends to engage with and 1860 The formerly plain brick façade stuccoed over and enriched with Classical details. Inside, the continue the history of community and making already established in the history of Claremont Hall. gallery—inconvenient to those who sat behind the minister—was reduced to three sides.

1890s Chapel sold to the London Congregational Union for use as a Mission Station for the increasingly deprived Pentonville district 1.3 ARCHITECTURAL AND TOWNSCAPE DESCRIPTION The exterior of the building has undergone significant changes since it was finished in 1819. These are well 1899 Mission station closed described in the statutory listing entry made on 9th September 1972:

1902 Altered for a new role as the Union’s Mission. The upper galleries were removed “Front elevation is result of successive alterations: 1854: front terrace (largely destroyed) by Henry Owen; 1860: alterations and the chapel became Claremont Hall. It was likely then that the side entrances were given their by Mr. Tarry; c.1902 further alterations. Stock bricks with stucco front elevation (probably stuccoed mid C19), including round-headed doorways with open pediments on consoles. vermiculated rusticated ground-floor dado, rusticated block dressings and quoins. Rectangular plan. Neo-classical style. 1960s Claremont Hall let by the mission for commercial use by Nesor Equipment Company, a dental Two storeys approached by full-width steps (widened C20) with stucco balustrade to ends, basement. 3-window range equipment company. Front building is a showroom at ground floor. The building is split over with symmetrical facade and projecting central pedimented bay. Ground-floor prostyle Ionic portico with paired columns two floors only originally. The old Sunday School building at back is the workshop where the to central architraved doorway with double C20 doors and 11-paned rectangular overlight; round-arched architraved equipment is made. Cyril Rosen, owner of Nesor, has a monkey that he often brings to work and keystoned flanking side entrances (probably altered C20) with paterae, console-bracketed open pediments, multi- with him that has a cage at the front of the building. Clive Elvin of Kinson Architects makes the paned fanlights, wide panelled corniced-heads and panelled doors. Round-arched, architraved 1st-floor 3/3 sashes with alterations during this period. curved, wavy and radial glazing bars, double margin lights, console-bracketed egg and dart cornice, and small brackets to sills. Entablature with foliated scrolled frieze panels in low relief to outer bays, centre bay frieze inscribed ‘CLAREMONT’, egg and dart and modillioned cornice and blocking course. Left return has 3 round-arched sashes on the upper level; rear 1990 Sub-let to the Crafts Council extension. Attached stucco walls to sides of forecourt; Neo-classical style cast-iron railings and fine cast and wrought-iron 1991 Conversion to a white-walled exhibition space (designed by Barry Mazur), with a library and gate piers to front.” offices above. Described in the listing is the arrangement of the entrance stairs as it was prior to amendments made by The Crafts 2006 Crafts Council closed gallery to concentrate on ‘developing national initiatives with partner Council in the 1990s- “full-width”. The next page shows the evolution of the forecourt access arrangements from organizations’. Moves out of upper floors. the 1800’s to the present day. Full width stairs were a feature of the original chapel forecourt, creating an open and inviting entrance to the building. They return in the 1950s, but unfortunately now the facade is eclipsed by a 2018 Crafts Council intends to reopen building to public. double layer of Victorian style balustrading, and access is compressed into small, steep ramps and a much smaller set of steps, without handrails.

AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 6 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] 1:200@A3 Plan Scale 1:100@A1

. Floor C Rev Ground . title no Dwg Existing 186_GA_020 Dwg 02 GA_060 CRAFT FOR

, PLACE Rd 9BY N1 COMMON Pentonville Project 186 44A London Checked GL GL GL GL Drawn MR MR MR MR Store .17 .17 .17 .17 .04 .03 .02 .01 Transit Date 07 03 24 27

Historic etchings, photographs and plan drawings to illustrate the evolution of access to Claremont Hall from its arrangement in the

early 1800s, through to the present day, including an overlay of these past arrangements. DRAFT Original stair layout - Status Pre-App Information Information Information . Rev C B A / Checked Drawn Date

Library

02 C-C Section

Store/ GA_061 Gallery/ GA_025 Status .

Rev

B-B Section 01 GA_061 BOUNDARY SITE Reception

Open Stair Terrace Open stair Doubled terrace KEY

. SITE

ON

Elevation South 02 GA_040 CHECKED BE

. TO & DRAWING . THIS MILLIMETRES IN

FROM

Approach Elevation South 01 RESERVED GA_040 SCALE DIMENSIONS NOT DO ALL COPYRIGHT .uk 1877 .co 7RG E2 .theaoc 870 458 +44 . www f

London .uk

Ltd .co 9950 Road 7739 20 Architecture Columbia +44 . AOC 49 t studio@theAOC

Indicative Plan Indicative Plan 1989 Survey 2016 Survey

1829 1850s 1952 1992 C-C Section AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 7 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] The interior has undergone yet more significant changes over the last 200 years. In its original use as a chapel the central congregation space was double height with raised galleries wrapping in an oval around the perimeter of the space. The listing tells us that this was “truncated in 1860 when other alterations were carried out by Mr. Tarry”. The pews and pulpit were built from oak, with hardwood parquet flooring throughout. During it’s use as a dental equipment showroom significant changes were made to the building; a concrete structure was inserted dividing the congregation space into two separate floors in the 1970s, with concrete structural columns on the ground floor to support the insertion.

1890’s Children’s clinic meal time (original parquet visible Original parquet flooring

1854 Illustrative sketch of the Chapel 1829, The Claremont Chapel opens its doors Congregation, Claremont central mission

AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 8 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] 1989 Survey showing the original entrance sequence with two internal staircases; the one to the east (top of drawing) remains today and is not affected by the proposed works this application is in reference to.

AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 9 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] 1.5 CONCLUSIONS 1.4 CURRENT PROPOSALS In summary the proposed scheme will strip back the interior to reveal forgotten historic fabric, and redesign the The current proposals will: forecourt arrangement to one which resonates with more elegant historic arrangements. a) Improve the accessibility, and reinstate the historic openess of th front entrance in the forecourt. The scheme has been drawn up in consultation with the local authority and has been informed by a detailed b) Maximise spatial generosity and reveal and celebrate the existing interior historic fabric of the interior. appraisal of the significance of the site. It takes full account of national and local policy and guidance.

The scheme seeks to do so in a manner which respects and retains those elements of the listed building which The scheme offers the chance to effect a real enhancement of the historically signifcant elements of the listed are of considerable or some significance, whilst ameliorating or removing those elements which are of little building, while at the same time improving accessibility, and creating a generous and welcoming public home for significance or considered to be negative or intrusive features. In this way the special interest of the listed building The Crafts Council. will be respected, its appearance and setting enhanced and the contribution made by the site to the appearance and character of the surrounding area both preserved and enhanced.

The proposals have been developed in consultation with Islington Council. On 8th June 2017 Gill Lambert (Architect, AOC), Martha Rawlinson (Architectural Assistant, AOC), and Andy McGlynn (Development Director, The Crafts Council) met with Duncan Ayles (Planning Officer) and Alex Bowring (Design & Conservation Officer) to discuss the heritage status of the building and the proposed works. Subsequent amendments and revisions were made to the proposals, and a thorough correspondence about the design of the forecourt proposals for inclusivity continued after the meeting.

The proposals are set out in the plans prepared by AOC, which accompany this application.

They can be broken down as follows:

EXTERIOR • Removal of contemporary balustrades, ramps and stairs • Resurfacing of slope to South of forecourt • Construction of new, compliant access arrangement- open, full-width steps that echo historic arrangements, combined with two level access slopes. • Handrails located as shown in 186_GA_120, 126, 140 and 161. • Fabric removal and amendments to passage to rear of property (R.010) to create a sloped level access.

INTERIOR 1980’s Nessor dental showroom 1992 The Crafts Council open up Claremont Hall to the public • Stripping out contemporary construction around columns and walls, along with various partitions from the interior. • Maximise the floor to ceiling height in the gallery by revealing the original parquet floor, and removing the suspended ceiling to expose the 1970s concrete soffit. • Remove and rebuild partitions in the existing toilets to transform Women’s WCs into a store, bring DDA toilet to a more compliant size, and create two refurbished gender-neutral cubicles. • Removal and rebuilding of front wall of riser wall to conceal ductwork for new servicing. • New lintel in opening across load bearing wall to back of gallery as shown in 1613_SK_03_B • Stripping out of all old defunct services above suspended ceiling, replacement with conservation heating system, with plant in loft space. • Reconfiguration of the floor levels of hall between R0.03 and R0.10 to provide level access. • Raising head of D.11 Door, along with new lintel. Existing redundant services above suspended ceiling & concrete • New electrical services, lighting and lighting track will replace existing throughout. soffit c.1970

AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 10 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT Design Process

Design is a process. It involves evaluating an initial brief alongside the physical, economic, social and statutory contexts if a project, then evolving and testing design solutions in response, in conversation with those who will use the project.

2.1 ORIGINAL BRIEF Since 1991 the Crafts Council has been the national agency for contemporary craft in the UK. It’s role it to lead the voice for craft in the UK, championing craft in the public eye through exhibitions, shows and events across the world, supporting makers through their careers, and introducing new generations by pushing the case for craft education at every level.

The Crafts Council hold the Collection for contemporary craft, spanning almost half a century, containing over 1,600 objects. In addition to this they have a substantial handling collection, and an archive of rare books and journals that are currently in storage with very limited access to the public.

The ‘Common Place for Craft’ project aims to transform the ground floor of the HQ building into a new home for craft in London. The new space will be the most flexible and diverse public space for craft in the capital, opening up the collection and consequently minds to the importance of craft. The Crafts Council team asked us to respond to incorporate the following emerging brief:

1. Display of craft objects 2. Integrate access to the library 3. Retain space to test build exhibitions Examples of pieces in the Crafts Council’s Collection, at relative scale. 4. Provide a new re-imagined , more accessible front of house 5. Create a flexible space for co-working 6. Visitor facilities including new unisex toilets 7. Ability to screen films to invited audiences 8. Storage for furniture and equipment 9. Retain the ability to receive large deliveries and provide access to the transit store.

2.2 ASSESSMENT 2.2.1 Physical context Share the collection Library Inviting co-working space I. Surroundings The site is located on Pentonville Road, which forms part of the London Inner Ring Road, on the boundary of the London congestion charge zone. The site is well serviced by Angel tube station on the Northern line, and several major bus routes. In the late 1700’s the junction between Pentonville Road and St Johns Street became an important traffic point for stage coaches to join the City and Smithfield. The townscape therefore mostly dates from this era onwards. A row of Georgian terraced housing faces the building, and mature trees are dotted along the street. Other surrounding buildings include more contemporary constructions, such as the Angel building, built in the 1980s and renovated in 2007. Events & Screenings Temporary exhibitions Use Priorities

AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 11 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] II. Area and Shape of Site G. High quality contemporary design can respond to this challenge as well as traditional architecture. Innovative design The overall dimensions of the site (including the transit store, originally the Sunday School) are approximately 59m is welcomed, but pastiche will not be acceptable. The council will establish new advisory mechanisms to ensure the long by 13m wide. The total area is approximately 770sq.m. highest standards of architecture and environmental design.

III. Existing buildings to be read in conjunction with section 1. Heritage Status Assessment • The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) (2012) Claremont chapel was completed in 1819, and the building at the back, now used as a transit store for loans and permanent items in the Crafts Council’s collection, was added in 1847. As the time-line and descriptions in part 1 On 27th March 2012, the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was published, with the policies in the show, the interior and exterior of the building have been subject to numerous alterations over the subsequent 200 Framework taking immediate effect. It confirms Local Planning Authorities should approach decision taking in a years. The exterior balustrading, ramps and steps are contemporary additions dating from the early 1990s, whilst positive way, seeking solutions not problems. the boundary walls are original and part of the listing. A careful recording of the dimensions and gradients of these existing arrangements is shown on the next page. Paragraph 14 of the NPPF confirms that at its heart is a presumption in favour of sustainable development, which the NPPF indicates should be seen as a “golden thread” running through both plan-making and 2.2.2 Historical context decision taking. For decision-taking, the NPPF states that this means: see section 1. Heritage Status Assessment Approving development proposals that accord with the development plan without delay; and where the development 2.2.3 Planning and policy context plan is absent, silent or relevant policies out- of-date, granting permission unless: Any adverse impacts of doing so Neither the use class or tenancy of the building will change as a result of the proposals. Listed Building Consent would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the NPPF taken as a is required, along with Planning Permission for the proposed changes to the forecourt. In developing designs for whole; Or specific policies in the NPPF indicate development should be restricted. the forecourt and the interior we have taken time to digest the broad planning and policy context in which our proposal is made and have identified the opportunities and constraints that this context poses. In particular we Paragraph 17 contains a set of core land-use planning principles that should underpin decision-taking. The have paid close attention to the following: third bullet point indicates that planning should:

OVER-ARCHING PLANNING AND DESIGN POLICIES “proactively drive and support sustainable economic development to deliver the homes, business and industrial units, infrastructure and thriving local places that the country needs.” • Islington’s Local Plan The most pertinent parts of the local plan are: Paragraph 56 advises that the “Government attaches great importance to the design of the built Policy CS 5 Angel and environment. Good design is a key aspect of sustainable development, is indivisible from good planning, Which asks that: and should contribute positively to making places better for people.” E. The Angel will be strengthened as a cultural destination by protecting and encouraging arts and entertainment uses. H. The historic character of the area will be protected and enhanced with high quality design encouraged so that it Paragraph 60 states “Planning policies and decisions should not attempt to impose architectural styles respects the local context of Angel and Upper Street and its surroundings. or particular tastes and they should not stifle innovation, originality or initiative through unsubstantiated Policy CS 8 Enhancing Islington’s character requirements to conform to certain development forms or styles. It is, however, proper to seek to promote Which asks that: or reinforce local distinctiveness.” B. Public realm improvements will enhance pedestrian and cycle routes, making it easier to travel sustainably through the borough. Open spaces will be maintained and enhanced to ensure they are inclusive, accessible spaces Paragraph 61 states “Although visual appearance and the architecture of individual buildings are very Policy CS 9 Protecting and enhancing Islington’s built and historic environment important factors, securing high quality and inclusive design goes beyond aesthetic considerations. Which asks that: Therefore, planning policies and decisions should address the connections between people and places and A. The borough’s unique character will be protected by preserving the historic urban fabric the integration of new development into the natural, built and historic environment.” B. The historic significance of Islington’s unique heritage assets and historic environment will be conserved and enhanced whether designated or not. Paragraph 63 highlights that “In determining applications, great weight should be given to outstanding or C. Where areas of Islington suffer from poor layout, opportunities will be taken to redesign them by reintroducing innovative designs which help raise the standard of design more generally in the area.” traditional street patterns and integrating new buildings into surviving fragments of historic fabric Paragraph 126 states “Local Planning Authorities should take into account: • The desirability of sustaining and enhancing the significance of heritage assets and putting them to viable uses consistent with their conservation; AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 12 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] • The wider social, cultural, economic and environmental benefits that conservation of the historic environment can bring; • The desirability of new development making a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness and • Opportunities to draw on the contribution made by the historic environment to the character of a place.”

5.13 Paragraph 131 highlights that “local planning authorities should take account of: • The desirability of sustaining and enhancing the significance of heritage assets and putting them to viable uses consistent with their conservation; • The desirability of new development making a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness.”

Paragraph 132 states “When considering the impact of a proposed development on the significance of a designated heritage asset, great weight should be given to the asset’s conservation. The more important the asset, the greater the weight should be. Significance can be harmed or lost through alteration or destruction of the heritage asset or development within its setting. As heritage assets are irreplaceable, any harm or loss should require clear and convincing justification.”

Paragraph 134 states “Where a development proposal will lead to less than substantial harm to the significance of a designated heritage asset, this harm should be weighed against the public benefits of the proposal, including securing its optimum viable use.”

Paragraph 137 states “Proposals that preserve those elements of the setting that make a positive contribution to or better reveal the significance of the asset should be treated favorably.”

Annex 2 of the document defines a ‘designated heritage asset’ as including a listed building, Registered Park and Garden and a Conservation Area designated under the relevant legislation. It defines a ‘heritage asset’ as a building, monument, site, place, area or landscape identified as having a degree of significance meriting consideration in planning decisions, because of its heritage interest. This includes designated heritage assets and assets identified by the local planning authority. (including local listing).

As confirmed earlier in this statement, Claremont Hall, Forecourt Walls, Railing and Gatepiers are Grade II listed and are therefore classified as a designated heritage asset by the NPPF. In accordance with the policy within the NPPF, this document assesses the significance of this heritage asset with regard to the development and assesses the impact of the work on the identified heritage asset.

• The Streetbook Supplementary Planning Document (SPD)

As a privately owned forecourt and building, the site is not a part of the public realm. Islington’s Streetbook “sets out the Council’s standards for the design, construction and maintenance of the Borough’s public realm”. Our primary ambition is to improve the current access provisions as much as possible, making an access route that is compliant with current building regulations.

It advises that in the case of changes of level steps should be visible, even and predictable; nosings should be highlighted, handrails provided. We have incorporated this advice into the design of the proposed forecourt Briefing workshops and priorities meeting improvements.

AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 13 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] 01 02 GA_061 GA_061

1212mm Accessibility and Compliance of Existing Forecourt ~+360

A plan of the existing conditions of Claremont Hall’s forecourt. The present allowances for non-stepped circulation +120 are woefully non-compliant with current building regulations, and present a

1:11 convoluted and diversionary route into the building.

RAMPS: • All three ramps are too narrow- compliant ramps should be 1500mm in width. • They are also too steep for their length; 1228mm ramps of this length should have a gradient closer to 1:14 • The route also requires negotiation of a number of tight turns. STEPS: 1:19 • The lower set have a rise of 145 and tread of 299mm Reception Gallery/ Store/ Library Transit Store Section C-C +1370 • The upper set have a rise of 135 and a tread of 279mm. GA_060 +360 +690 +1230 • Both have a rise lower than the 150 02 given in Part M. +1095 +825 +960 +525 SLOPE: • The present slope at the front of the forecourt is acceptable when crossing 1:36 1228mm diagonally- it does not reach the ratio of 1:21 at which the regs would classify it as a ramp.

1406mm 1:10 1:10

KEY

+00 Slope gradient 1151mm Ramp gradient

Accessible access route 1170mm +000 +1026 Relative Level AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 14 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] B-B C-C Section Section

Project Dwg title AOC Architecture Ltd 186 COMMON PLACE FOR CRAFT Existing Ground Floor Plan 49 Columbia Road London E2 7RG t. +44 20 7739 9950 f. +44 870 458 1877 [email protected] www.theaoc.co.uk B Information 03.03.17 MR GL DO NOT SCALE FROM THIS DRAWING. A Information 24.02.17 MR GL ALL DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES & TO BE CHECKED ON SITE. 44A Pentonville Rd, Dwg no. Rev. Scale COPYRIGHT RESERVED. / Information 27.01.17 MR GL London N1 9BY 186_GA_020 B 1:100@A1 1:200@A3 Rev. Status Date Drawn Checked Rev. Status DRAFTDate Drawn Checked 2.4 EVALUATION 2.3 Involvement: a shared conversation Analysis of constraints upon the proposed works considered: 2.3.1 Working with rather than for • heritage status AOC believe in working with people rather than for them. Since being appointed in January 2017, we have • size and levels of existing building fabric and forecourt engaged The Crafts Council in extensive conversation about the future of the organisation, their space, and craft as • demands, expectations and desires of diverse user groups a whole. We have done this both formally through client meetings and more creatively through: • budget limitations - Briefing workshops with project team - Interviews with collection care and other relevant staff stakeholders Thorough testing and review with the client body and relevant stakeholders has helped refine the brief and the - Visitor & stakeholder interviews - 11 telephone interviews proposals that answer it. Inevitably , working with an existing building with listed status involves compromises, but - Visits and observations on every day of the week we believe the design process we have engaged in has produced proposals which improve upon and enhance the - Public salon discussion held at Collect 2016 appearance, accessibility, and historic context of the existing fabric. - Design review meetings & workshops - Consultation with The Crafts Council’s Young People’s group

2.3.2 Establishing Priorities Early in the design process the Crafts Councils key requirements were explored further through a priorities workshop as a step towards developing a brief that took into account the complex parameters and different user groups surrounding the project. This resulted in a more concise list and amendments to the priorities.

2.3.3. Developing the brief Through a continuous conversation with The Crafts Councils development, exhibitions and collections teams we have developed the original brief into a more coherent and precise set of deliverables. In particular, it was possible to identify the vital importance of a thorough redevelopment of the forecourt: • to create an unobstructed visual connection to the entrance, and therefore an inviting welcome • to provide access for all that is compliant with contemporary building regulations • to restore a sense of historic continuity and elegance Existing raised terrace This conversation continues to ensure that the design proposals we have developed are appropriate and sensitive, and based on a thorough understanding of the needs of the Craft’s Council, and its current and future users.

2.3.4 Evaluation and design evolution An essential part of the design proposals has been to test the proposals with the people they affect, at regular points throughout the design process. Our methods have included: 1. Regular design sessions with the Crafts Council’s development director and appropriate members of the client team 2. Developed briefing workshop with 1:1 scale 2 dimensional mock ups of interior proposals installed in space 3. Consultation and review of concept design with The Crafts Council’s Young People’s group

A process of testing and evaluating numerous options was crucial to the development of the forecourt design. Initial tests attempted to create compliant access through minimal intervention, but this proved impossible to balance with appropriate sensitivity to the heritage context. The many options tested are condensed to four that summarise the process overleaf. Existing relationship with street

AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 15 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected] Possible Solutions to Improve Accessibility and Compliance

TEST ONE: TEST TWO: Existing Slope, New Ramps New Slope, New Ramps

+120 +120 - New ramps are too steep and 1:9 - New ramps have a compliant 1:15 are non-compliant gradient 1:9 1:15

- Slope complies - Required new “slope” is too steep to be regarded as a slope

+360 +1230 and would require treatment +690 +1230 as a “ramp”.

1:31 1:16 +0 +0

TEST THREE: TEST FOUR: New compliant ramp Fully compliant stepped and

slope combination +278 1:18 1:33 - Convulted ramp with +120 +120 1:18 compliant gradients - Compliant slopes and steps

1:18 combined. -Compliant existing slope

-Relates to previous open, 1:21.5

- Convoluted, obtrusive +360 +1230 stepped historic arrangements 1:78 +1230 intervention with no relation of forecourt. to historic arrangements or symmetry of building. -Existing levels of forecourt

1:21.5 retained at front

1:31 +0 5m -5m deep drop off area +0 +754

AOC Architecture Ltd. The Crafts Counci 24-28 Pritchards Road, London, E2 9AP Design & Access Statement tel. 0207 739 9950 16 www.theaoc.co.uk [email protected]