Heaton Group partners with Studio KMA on Bishopgate Gardens

Architects from Studio KMA have been brought on board by The Heaton Group to collaborate on the flagship Bishopgate Gardens residential development in Preston city centre.

The development on Ormskirk Road is a conversion of a former office block and will be made up of 130 luxury apartments.

Its communal spaces will include a residents’ lounge with 24-hour concierge, communal rooftop gardens and seven retail units overlooking a plaza, including a barber shop, florist and deli store.

Studio KMA has been brought in to design the apartments and communal spaces. Andy Titterton, from the practice, said: “Together with The Heaton Group, we have created a very efficient, attractive new landmark mixed-use development for the city centre.

“We’re really pleased to be working with such a forward-thinking developer that considers the significant carbon savings of refurbishment projects compared to new-build construction.

“This is one refurbishment project, we believe, that will surpass the aesthetic and functional specifications of any new-build project in the area.”

Chris Holland, director at The Heaton Group, said: “The building is in a prime spot for modernisation, especially with some of the new civic development schemes that are underway in the area.

The exterior will be clad in distinctive, contemporary black and gold aluminium panels, transforming the building into a recognisable landmark.

“Our landscape architects have designed the plaza at the entrance of the building and the roof gardens with stunning city views.”

The roof-top gardens on the eighth and eleventh floors will feature a modern planting scheme to create an “urban jungle” feel and ambient lighting to make it a comfortable place to relax on summer evenings.

Chris added: “The communal spaces have all been designed by the Studio KMA interior design team, to create a spectacular welcome for residents and visitors to the building.

“These areas will also act as a central point for ‘The Common’ shared working space and commercial units on the ground floor.”

Smart technology will be incorporated throughout the building, meaning simpler management, lower costs and smarter rental options as well as remote heating access and fob access to the building.

Bishopsgate will be one of the Heaton Groups’ largest developments to date.