Lincoln, UK,
2008 - 2010
Student Housing
Historic Site
Deep Retrofit and Extension
Introduction
Jonathan Hendry Architects were approached to obtain listed building consent to partially demolish a series of Grade ll listed buildings, restore two Grade ll listed buildings, obtain planning permission to insert a courtyard building and a new building that faces Grantham Street, creating two town houses, a retail unit and eighteen apartments. A stones throw from the Lincoln Museum in Lincoln City Centre, Steep Hill and minutes walk from Lincoln Cathedral and Castle, the building creates a timeless piece of city fabric.
Project
This mixed-use development in Grantham Street brings new life to a historic urban block through the restoration of two Grade II listed buildings and the introduction of contemporary residential and commercial architecture. The scheme combines two townhouses, 18 apartments and a ground-floor retail unit, reinstating the historic street pattern while creating a new courtyard at the heart of the development.
Carefully considered brick façades, stepped rooflines and generous window openings respond to the surrounding architecture, balancing heritage conservation with modern urban living. The result is a high-density residential scheme that strengthens the streetscape, improves the relationship between buildings and public space, and introduces a more vibrant mixed-use environment.
Light, Privacy & Flexibility
A defining feature of the apartments is the use of white-painted internal shutters, reinterpreting the character of traditional Georgian windows for contemporary living. The shutters give residents control over privacy, daylight, ventilation and solar gain, while allowing the façades to change subtly with everyday use.
Combined with shallow apartment plans, wide double-fronted layouts and generous French doors, this approach maximises natural light, views and airflow. It also gives residents the freedom to personalise their living spaces, demonstrating how historic architectural principles can inform practical, adaptable homes today.
