The Colyer, London WC2

Client: Aviva Investors

The Colyer is a mid-nineteenth century building located at 10-11 Great Newport Street in the Covent Garden conservation area. Formerly Studio 51, the building was a seminal jazz club for artists including Ken Colyer. JRA was appointed by Aviva Investors to carry out a sensitive conversion from its use as office to residential accommodation taking the history of Studio 51 and the area into account.

The exterior has been sympathetically renovated by keeping the original facade and has a premium retail unit and a concierge occupying the ground floor. Two additional floors have been created with new outside space at every level. Internally, the building comprises 14 apartments ranging from studios to 3 bedrooms, including a penthouse offering panoramic views across London.

During the design process, JRA improved the longevity of the development through environmental strategies. The building achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating through a number of initiatives, for example, a sedum roof, low flow water fittings and shallow baths. The thermal performance of the envelope has been significantly improved and solar panels have been fitted as a long term investment and additional benefit for residents.