Unite Moonraker Point

DMWR Architects were appointed by Unite Group for RIBA Stage 4 analysis and redesign within the parameters of the granted planning consent for two mixed-use student residential buildings in Great Suffolk Street, London.

The project involved developing two buildings: a triangular 10-storey building with student studios above commercial space, and an 8-storey building with student apartments and commercial spaces. The buildings required redesigning and refining in line with the existing planning approval while ensuring compliance with the design vision and practical requirements for construction.

Client

Unite Students

Sector
Value

£35 million

Scale

674 student rooms

Services
  • RIBA 4-6
  • Detailed Design
  • Specification Writing
  • Production Drawings
  • 3D Visualisation

What DMWR did

DMWR undertook a detailed analysis of the existing planning consent and conducted necessary redesign work within the granted parameters to ensure the project could move forward. This included reviewing and improving the design to optimise functionality and ensure the buildings met the standards of both the client and building regulations.

Of the two buildings, the first was a 10-storey triangular structure (9 storeys plus a mezzanine), which featured 718sqm of commercial space at the ground and mezzanine levels. Above this space were 127 self-contained student studio units. The second building was predominantly 8 storeys high (7 storeys plus a mezzanine), with three split-level rooftop pods. It included 1,512sqm of commercial space at the ground and basement levels, and 84 student apartments (cluster flats) with 527 single bedrooms and 20 self-contained student studios.

DMWR reworked the basement design to provide 15 disabled parking spaces, 362 cycle spaces, and additional storage and plant areas. Further provision of 64 visitor cycle spaces was added outside the main building to improve accessibility and support sustainability.

Focusing on the architectural detailing and overall building aesthetic, DMWR worked to create a striking contrast between the two buildings. The student studio block was designed using metal panelling, glazed curtain walling, projecting balconies and both horizontal and vertical louvres, resulting in a modern and dynamic appearance. In contrast, the cluster flat building adopted a more restrained brick palette to complement its surroundings.

The Outcome

The project progressed successfully through the redesign phase, with DMWR delivering a revised design that adhered to the parameters of the planning consent while optimising the building layout and aesthetics.

The two mixed-use buildings now offer a total of 674 bed spaces for students, alongside a substantial amount of commercial space at ground and basement levels. The basement facilities ensure ample parking and cycle storage, enhancing the building's sustainability and accessibility. The striking design of the studio block, with its modern metal cladding and glazed curtain walls, contrasts perfectly with the more traditional brickwork of the cluster flat building. The completed project provides a high-quality student accommodation in a prominent and well-connected location in London.

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