We were appointed to redesign the shopfront of this historic building in a Cambridge conservation area, securing planning approval in late 2020 for a sensitive and context‑led proposal.
The existing 1960s shopfront did little to reveal the building’s significance as one of the earliest playhouses in Cambridge. Following the departure of the former tenant, our client commissioned us to develop a new elevation that would better respect the surrounding architecture and contribute positively to the character of the conservation area, ready for an incoming national retailer.
Our design reinstates a more traditional hierarchy and rhythm to the frontage. The new shopfront is defined by glazing framed between pilasters, supporting a projecting entablature set on decorative corbels. Revised glazing proportions introduce a stronger vertical emphasis, while high‑level clerestory windows allow additional daylight into the interior without detracting from the historic streetscape.
To further improve the building’s appearance, the existing pebbledash parapet is clad in a grey weatherboard, providing a cleaner, more coherent finish that aligns with neighbouring façades.
This project demonstrates our ability to balance commercial requirements with sensitive heritage considerations, delivering a design that enhances both the building’s identity and its contribution to the wider conservation area.
