Base Scheme Scoops Design Award

Our scheme to breathe new life into a Grade II listed textile mill has been recognised as one of Shropshires best architecture, urban design and building conservation projects.

Fort Pendlestone in Bridgnorth picked up the accolade for ˜restoration or repair of a listed building at the Shropshire Council Design and Conservation Awards, held on January 12.

The awards aim to promote, encourage and recognise inclusive, sustainable and high quality developments across the county.

More than 30 schemes were submitted during the year and were assessed according to a range of criteria including design quality, context, craftsmanship and sustainability by an experienced panel of judges.

About the scheme
We were commissioned to redesign and rebuild the existing complex of apartments at Fort Pendlestone, a red sandstone former textile mill that had fallen into disrepair after the original developer went out of business. Built in 1845, it follows the trend of cast iron and masonry mill buildings pioneered by the world famous Flax Mill in Shrewsbury. Only five apartments had been built when we took the project on.

Fort Pendlestone occupies a prominent position in the town and therefore required a conversion sympathetic to its history, internally and externally. The mock Tudor Gothic style building was already converted into apartments but we were commissioned to upgrade the quality of the units and ensure that the building was sound and water tight, due to its close proximity to the River Severn.

Given the listed status of the building, work required careful liaison with the local Conservation Officer to create elegant apartments that highlighted the historical features of the building. 

We also faced challenges in the building, as the sandstone construction demanded careful attention to detailing to ensure it remained dry and warm. 

The success of the conversion was reflected by the swift sale of the apartments on completion of the project. As a listed building we retained the individual character of the building, whilst making the most internally of the original building fabric to create 14 luxury apartments. 

The judges said they particularly liked our scheme as they appreciated we had been faced with a challenge of upgrading a dated layout and configuration as well as dealing with a partly completed building site. 

They felt our changes and use of materials were sympathetic to the form of the building and created a natural harmony, both internally and externally.