Planning
The Victorian buildings along Newmarket Road in Cambridge have experienced a gradual decline in both appearance and use, largely due to limited demand and the overwhelming presence of surrounding traffic infrastructure. However, beneath this decline lies untapped potential: the three-storey structure with a basement offered an opportunity to transform the site into two high-quality city centre residences. In collaboration with the client and her planning advisor, we stripped away unnecessary additions and reworked vertical circulation to create two self-contained, inverted living units—each featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and open-plan kitchen, living, and dining areas.
Design
Reconfiguring the internal circulation, replacing existing windows, and introducing new rooflights to internal spaces brought immediate and tangible benefits—flooding the interiors with natural light, enhancing ventilation, and accommodating upgraded building services throughout.
The inverted layout proved especially effective, placing bedrooms toward the quieter rear of the property wherever possible, while elevating living spaces to benefit from maximum daylight and spatial openness.
Reconstruction of the original Victorian shopfront—along with essential acoustic improvements—was carefully developed through detailed dialogue with the local Conservation Officer. The result is a sensitive balance of heritage and adaptability, preserving future flexibility for reuse while delivering a light-filled, contemporary interior.
Interior design
The principles of the design layout and use were establish in dialogue with our client, but the final design and finish attained belongs to them and their drive and determination to create high quality living accommodation.
Pictures by Matthew Power Photography, courtesy of IKON Property