Plans for Makers’ Yard, a new mixed commercial and residential use scheme on Commerce Road in Brentford, have been submitted for planning. Designed by Scott Brownrigg for developer Euthenia Developments Ltd – a joint venture between BlackOnyx and Brookworth Homes – the scheme regenerates an underused brownfield site along Grand Union Canal to provide 111 high quality new homes, associated amenity and improved public realm. Building upon a long history associated with the production of goods and transportation, provision of 2396 m² light industrial space encourages residents to reconnect with the site’s rich industrial heritage.
Proposals have been carefully developed to create a high quality and contextual response that relates to the immediate and wider context, and local history, in terms of massing, materiality and detailing. Two residential blocks, ranging from five to seven stories in height, wrap around a raised central landscaped courtyard, which is sheltered from the road. The scheme also provides the community with a landscaped and accessible link to a proposed railway park, which is being developed along a derelict train line adjacent to the site. A proposed materials palette of multi-toned brick with metalwork detailing reflects the traditional masonry work found in the surrounding context, creating a sense of unison yet variation throughout the scheme.
Provision of flexible, light Industrial units along the ground floor activates the frontage along Commerce Road. Above, a mix of one to three bed homes for private sale and affordable rent, each with access to a private balcony, are designed to accommodate people of all ages. Residents enjoy access to the private central courtyard that include places to socialise, rest and play, and a series of biodiverse green roof spaces, which increase ecological value of the site and provide opportunities to grow produce.
Sustainability is at the core of the design. In line with Hounslow Climate Emergency Action Plan, the scheme responds to environmental factors and orientation, and adopts a fabric first approach. Other sustainable measures include water reduction systems, rainwater harvesting and heating via a sustainable air source heat pump. The development is predominantly car free, providing a select number of disabled only spaces and ample cycle storage to encourage more sustainable modes of transport.
In line with the Brentford Area Action Plan (BAAP), Makers’ Yard contributes to the wider regeneration of Brentford, providing a range of facilities that will support a growing and diverse community, while helping to reconnect the area to its unique waterside location and industrial heritage.