Architecture practice Falconer Chester Hall has secured planning permission for a luxury apartment development in the upmarket Liverpool suburb of Blundellsands for client Winter Melia.
The scheme will see the conversion of the Grade II listed United Reformed Church on the corner of Warren Road and The Serpentine into 9 residential dwellings, bringing the church back into use with minimal interventions.
The church sits opposite the area’s private Key Park – home to Blundellsands Lawn Tennis Club – and is two minutes’ stroll from Antony Gormley’s famous Other Place installation on Blundellsands beach.
Robert Brym, Associate Director at Falconer Chester Hall’s Liverpool studio said, “a fundamental element of the success of the conversion of the church is to retain the inherent character. Careful consideration of the design for the scheme has ensured the original features are incorporated into the apartments.
“The proposed layouts protect existing stain glass windows and allow for natural light to flood the spacious rooms. The new floors will be supported by an independent structure that does not compromise the existing fabric of the church. The conversion of this Grade II listed church will secure its future over the long term.”
Phil Melia, Director, Winter Melia commented, “Winter Melia are specialists in the conversion of listed buildings into modern living spaces. The United Reformed Church presented us with a unique opportunity. Working closely with FCH on the design resulted in the creation of a luxurious, low density scheme. The spacious duplex/triplex apartments are in keeping with the demand of the location, appealing to a wider audience, including families and those wishing to downsize.
“We are delighted that planners and Sefton Council shared our vision, and we are looking forward to starting work onsite.”
Other consultants on the scheme include: Liath Heritage and Design (heritage), Orion Fire Engineering Limited, Vectos (highways), AEC Acoustic & Engineering Consultants and Lally Tree Management.