Filter projects
Category
Services
Grade Listing
Fabric
Year

5 Spencer Park

Residential

1 / 4

At the heart of a distinguished late 19th-century Gothic Revival residence in Wandsworth, the entrance and forecourt had long carried the weight of history. DBR was commissioned to transform this threshold, preserving its architectural character while enhancing functionality, safety, and visual impact.

Client
5 Spencer Park
Dates
Until 2023
Location
Wandsworth
Grade listing
Conservation Area
Fabric
Brick

Crafting a Statement of Style

A striking new cast iron canopy became the centrepiece of the works, elegantly supported by columns and piers. It offers shelter for residents and visitors, while also serving as a refined architectural statement that complements the building’s historic façade.

The front steps were completely rebuilt, incorporating restored stonework and flanked by carefully constructed brick walls with stone copings and a handrail. The result is a safer, more durable approach that retains the Gothic Revival character of the property.

Doane 2

Making Space for Modern Life

To improve access, part of the original front boundary wall was sensitively removed to allow a wider gate. The intervention strikes a balance between practicality and preservation, integrating seamlessly with the historic streetscape.

Around the front lightwell, new railings were installed, combining protection, visual harmony, and subtle continuity with the building’s style. A bespoke refuse and storage unit was also created within the forecourt, designed to meet modern needs without compromising aesthetics.

Doane 1918
Doane 1905

Monumental Stonework

One of the project’s most impressive feats involved the refurbishment of the Crossland Hill stone steps. This included the installation of one of the largest single stone pieces ever cut by the quarry, a testament to both engineering skill and careful planning. Original stone paviours were carefully lifted, preserved, and re-laid to suit the new layout, ensuring continuity with the property’s heritage.

Doane 1940

A Forecourt to Be Proud Of

The completed project transforms the property’s arrival sequence. The entrance and forecourt now offer a balance of grandeur, accessibility, and heritage preservation. It is a space that honours the building’s Gothic Revival roots while providing a renewed sense of pride, purpose, and presence for the home and its visitors.

Doane 1931

Attention to Every Detail

Additional works reinforced the overall composition. Masonry repairs were carried out on the front façade, new brick plinths were constructed to support the canopy, and discreet drainage solutions were integrated to protect the building fabric.

Every element, from the largest stone to the smallest iron detail, was executed with precision, respect, and craftsmanship, resulting in an entrance that is as functional as it is beautiful.

Doane 1929
Doane 1937