Merano Residences

The revival of a riverside building by Rogers Stirk Harbour & Partners is brightening the Vauxhall Nine Elms area of London.

Prior to its redevelopment, the 1960s riverfront building, situated opposite the Tate Britain, blended well within its monochrome dilapidated surroundings. Members of the Lambeth Planning Committee granted permission for the renovation of what was formerly known as Eastbury House located on the South Bank of the Thames close to the heart of Central London.

The new, high-quality mixed-use development is led by award-winning architects Rogers Stirk Harbour & Partners and avant-garde developers St James of Berkeley Group and is made up of three stepped bays varying in height to create a dynamic skyline. The blocks are to be 14, 21 and 28 storeys and will accommodate apartments, offices and a cafe.

The Merano Residences will be formed with RSHP’s signature steel-cross bracing. These will stabilise the simple concrete frame and the east and west facades made of glass which create a light transparent envelope. Vibrant, popping colours are being employed to the undersides of the balconies, instantly brightening the surrounding area on Albert Embankment as well the building’s exterior.

The glazed sides contrast to the solid north and west facades which are planned to be lightweight insulated panels with an external rainscreen.

St James appointed Wintech to perform a full facade consultancy and design services on the development through a series of stages; from the development of a cladding and glazing strategy for a whole building, to specification, fully detailed design and on-site validation of works.

This development comes as a promising edition to the Vauxhall Nine Elms Battersea Opportunity Area which was predicted increased investment after the completion of the Shard project; working with developers St James in contributing to the vision of recreating a lively riverside area beside the Thames. The Merano Residences have recently been announced as RIBA National Award 2019 winners.