Title: Fishergate, Norfolk

Client: Ashgate Homes

Job: Residential Development, Fishergate

Date: Completed 2007

This development, for local developer, Ashgate Homes, is situated close to the centre of Norwich in the historically significant Fishergate, one of the earliest areas of settlement in Norwich. The scheme comprises two separate elements; a new build development of houses and flats fronting onto Fishergate and a warehouse conversion, separated from the new-build by a narrow alley, characteristic of this area of Norwich, called Thoroughfare Yard.

The enclosed nature of this urban site meant that there were numerous constraints resulting from the surrounding buildings. The scheme adopts a courtyard form creating a space in the centre of the development that is both accessible and secure. The lines of the streets, eroded by the previous building on the site, were re-established and Thoroughfare Yard was re-surfaced and new lighting installed. Allied to this, visibility and access in the alley has been improved creating an active and hospitable environment for residents and the public using the space.

The design of the new build properties reflects the architectural character of the surrounding buildings in terms of scale, massing and materials which integrates the development into the existing street. The converted warehouse was re-clad and a new pitched roof constructed creating a contemporary urban aesthetic that compliments the surroundings and this aspect of the development was awarded an honourable mention in the Norwich Society’s Design Awards in 2007.