GPAD receives planning approval for Pellatt Road, the transformation of an underutilised piece of land opposite Preston Road Sports Ground into a vibrant and characterful new residential development in the heart of Wembley.

The design approach is rooted around the original Metroland ethos, with homes set within abundant greenspace amenity, whilst drawing architectural inspiration from exemplar modernist buildings within the borough.  

The low-carbon proposal features 13 generously proportioned dual–aspect homes that widen the offer available locally and support a community of all ages. Homes that will be environmentally responsible, with carefully selected enduring materials, super–insulated and with on-site renewables to deliver sustainable homes that are cheap to run.

The sculpted form addresses the sports ground in the spirit of the pavilion which once stood on the site. Itresponds to, and acknowledges, its proximity to neighbouring homes with articulation offering further space for planting and retention of existing trees. The proposed design strengthens connections to the sports ground through the introduction of a series of south–facing garden terraces that sensitively tier down to mediate between the building and open space to create a distinct vertical green profile that also contributes to the scheme’s 10% Biodiversity Net Gain.  

The new pavilion building celebrates its prominent position as a gateway into the wider estate with its striking appearance acting as a visual landmark for the surrounding community. Externally, a soft white brick is used for its durable quality and provides a neutral backdrop for the diverse planting that will be introduced. The simplicity of the material palette, reminiscent of Wembley’s modernist architectural heritage, is elevated with playful brickwork patterning at the top of the building and at ground to distinguish the entrance.

Architects View:

A key concept at the outset of the project was to provide meaningful, high-quality amenity for the residents in-line with LB Brent’s aspirations. This ambition has directly influenced the massing approach to the building, with stepped terrace gardens not only breaking up the mass of the building and mitigating overshadowing, but also providing areas for cascading planting and a fantastic space to socialise with your neighbours overlooking the adjacent sports ground.

The challenge of retaining an existing mature tree became an opportunity for the building to sensitively respond to its geometry in harmony with the sculpted language of the proposal. The gently scooped walls allow the building to appear slender and more elegant when viewed within the townscape.

It was a pleasure to work with a brilliant team, design-led client and positively engaged local authority to transform this tricky site into a place that residents will be proud to call home, through bold but thoughtful design.

– Alex Mann, Architect at GPAD

Read more about Pellatt Road here.