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Studio Moren focusing on student experience at More House 

Studio Moren has received planning consent to cover a series of key amendments to its project at 19th-century More House in Kensington, London.

The revised scheme will restore and extend the building to provide contemporary purpose-built student accommodation for client SAV Group.

Situated at 51-55 Cromwell Road, close to Kensington’s, London’s art and museum centre, More House is named after St Thomas More.

The 38,000 sq ft property is in a conservation area, and will be reconfigured internally to provide a high-quality student accommodation within the constraints of the existing building envelope. Additions will include a mansard roof and extensions to the rear, with internal courtyards helping to creating a natural, relaxed atmosphere.

Studio Moren is delivering the architecture and interiors on the project, restoring its 19th-century fabric and highlighting its architectural contribution to the local area, while modernising the function of the building to extend its life.

The company has added space and improved its usability with discreet infill extensions and the restoration of hipped roofs, helping to meet the evolving demands of students. The latest planning consent includes the demotion of a mews garage for conversion to bedrooms, communal space and plant.

“We are focusing on the student experience in the property and modern building spaces where students can meet, interact and socialise, in contrast to the crowded and limited HMOs of the past.

 

“It's a very good location, opposite the Natural History Museum, with a number of amenities nearby. In the summer when the students are away, the building can be let as a short-stay accommodation.”

Angela Franco Project Lead Architect Studio Moren

"The interior design scheme takes inspiration from the Victorian era, as well as Sir Richard Owen and his pivotal role in the creation of the Natural History Museum. The shared amenities are composed of a series of spaces across various levels and include flexible social working and gathering spaces, a members club style lounge, smaller quiet study spaces as well as a karaoke /cinema room. The studios are fitted with a dedicated workspace, kitchenette, ensuite and extensive storage to meet the needs of today’s students.”

Rachael Reid Senior Interior Designer Studio Moren

Sustainability has formed a major part of Studio Moren’s design, with every effort made to retain as much of the existing structure as possible in order to limit the embodied carbon emissions of the project. Additional features include plans to install a ground source heat pump that will provide the all the heating and cooling for the property, as well as PV solar panels. 

Located in the Queens Gate Conservation Area, the design team has collaborated closely with heritage consultant Montagu Evans to ensure the proposal remains commensurate with the character of the surrounding area.

“My favourite element of the project is that we are bringing a disused building back to life. I first visited the site when it was empty and it was in a very poor condition, so I feel like we are doing something positive. We are improving the fabric of the area, bringing the diversity and vibrancy of student life to this amazing location.”

Angela Franco Project Lead Architect Studio Moren