Western block bay elevation
View along the canal towpath
The revitalised site promotes canalside interaction
1:200 context model
The Union
The Union is the transformation of a former BT storage facility into student residences that bring life back to the waterfront of the Grand Union Canal. We focused on integrating the site into the surrounding area with an active ground floor and landscaping that welcomes people through the development and onto the towpath.
The scheme comprises two four-storey buildings with accommodation ranging from self-contained studios to eight-bedroom clusters. The ground floor provides modern, light communal areas overlooking the canal and landscaped gardens. The light-filled reception area contains a large, colourful artwork mirroring the Sir Terry Frost RA designs of the external public artwork.
Each building retains an individual identity through two different brick types. The eastern block marks the route to the towpath. And the lengthier western block takes inspiration from historic canal buildings, providing a definitive edge and promoting canalside interaction.
| Client | Alumno Developments | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Leamington Spa | |
| Status | Completed 2017 | |
| Homes | 187 student bedrooms | |
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