Florence Apartments

 
 

This project involves replacing three substandard commercial and residential units on Florence Road, Bray, Co. Wicklow, with a high-quality four-storey building. The new structure will house retail units on the ground floor and eight apartments on the first, second, and third floors. A sedum green roof will enhance the building's environmental performance. The fourth floor is set back to maintain harmony with the immediate surroundings and features an extended patio across the front facade.

 

Date: 2024
Client: Private
Location: Bray, Co. Wicklow
Type: Mixed-use Development
Tasks: Concept Design • Technical Design • Procurement • 3D Rendering

A street scene with parked cars, storefronts, and multi-story buildings under a cloudy sky. A store sign advertises deals for €1.50 each. There are flower displays outside a shop on the right, and a blue bus in the distance.
Cross-sectional architectural drawing of a multi-story building showing interior layouts and room arrangements across different floors.
Architectural floor plan of a building's ground level with furniture layout, rooms labeled as bicycle store, tea bays, stores, assist W.C., and living spaces, with measurements and entrances marked.
Detailed architectural floor plan of a residential building's first floor, including multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas, kitchens, dining rooms, storage spaces, and patios, with measurements and labels.
Detailed architectural blueprint of a second-floor residential layout with measurements, rooms labeled including bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and storage spaces, along with furniture placements and annotations.

The new development integrates traditional materials, such as red brick and limestone accents, with contemporary design elements to create a cohesive and attractive structure. Ground-floor shops will include bay windows, reflecting the street's architectural heritage and creating a visual link with the existing streetscape.

The two penthouse apartments on the fourth floor are designed to respect the historical skyline, featuring modern architectural touches that add a contemporary flair without overpowering the area's character. This design approach ensures that the building fits seamlessly into its historic context while offering modern amenities and aesthetics. The combination of old and new materials and design elements provides a balanced and timeless addition to Florence Road.

Elevation architectural drawing of a building with brick and terraced housing design, showing multiple floors, balconies, and proposed signage areas.

The attractive red brick houses and offices to the east of the site serve as architectural references for the new development. The design incorporates brick and gestures towards the bay window features of these neighboring properties.

To maintain architectural coherence, the building will utilize similar materials and design elements, ensuring a visual connection with its surroundings. The fourth floor will feature a sealed copper roof, aligning comfortably with the brickwork and enhancing the overall aesthetic. This thoughtful integration of traditional and contemporary elements aims to create a building that respects and complements its context.