Set to completely transform what is currently a brownfield site in Wandsworth, the designs for Armoury Way look to create 434 student beds in a mixture of studios and cluster bedrooms, which will be complemented by extensive internal communal amenities and green wellbeing roof terraces. The scheme is targeting BREEAM "Outstanding".
With placemaking at the heart of the design, extensive public realm covering an area of 3,715 sqm will be created, maximising greenery and generating green links such as the Wandle Walk, which will connect the community to local landmarks like the River Wandle. The mixed-use site will also feature 1,226 sqm of light industrial space, offering high-quality workspace to local SMEs and start-up companies.
Both Block A and B follow a similar configuration, with 5 and 4 stepping volumes respectively, built over separate plinths. The volumes step down sequentially from 10 to 8 storeys towards the edges of the site, leaving the maximum height of both at the centre of the development, emphasising the main pedestrian link. The tops of the buildings are carved in order to form a series of cascading terraces, sculpting the top and contributing positively to an attractive skyline.
The scheme features substantial outdoor space. On various levels across the buildings, over 1,200 sqm of external space has been created over 5 terraces, providing 270-degree views over the surrounding context, but protected from wind by full height façades with parapet glass.
All outdoor areas are directly connected to other social spaces, including dedicated cinema, TV and gaming rooms as well as private dining spaces. This is in addition to widely accessible ground floor amenities such as a gym, quiet study space, communal laundry room, student lounges and a social seating area, all with prominent views of garden spaces.
Armoury Way aims to deliver high-quality student living spaces supported by a wide range of amenities to cater for the diverse needs of student life, promoting social inclusivity. 35% of the student accommodation provision will be affordable.