Urban Creation’s redevelopment of 71 Park Street and 18 Charlotte Street transformed a bomb-damaged, sloping corner plot in central Bristol into modern student accommodation, complete with a ground-floor commercial unit. The scheme reinstated the five upper storeys lost during the Second World War and now delivers 22 high-quality studios alongside a flexible retail space.
The project sought to restore the building’s historic roofline by reinstating the storeys lost during wartime, while introducing a high-performance, modern living environment.
Sustainability was a key driver throughout. The studios achieve exceptional levels of air-tightness, with air-loss scores around 1–2, supported by mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) and a water-mist fire suppression system.
At street level, the inclusion of a commercial unit helps to reinvigorate this prominent stretch of Park Street, contributing to a more vibrant and active streetscape.
Kitto Construction worked closely with the design brief produced by O’Leary Goss Architects to deliver the renovation, alongside the creation of 6 student accommodation units, including a shared living space and kitchen.
As part of the wider scheme, bespoke sash windows and frames were carefully designed and installed to complement the building’s character while meeting modern performance standards.
Kitto Construction played a central role in delivering the external façade and internal finishes. Bespoke shopfront and façade joinery was designed, manufactured and installed to suit the site’s challenging topography.
Due to the steep gradient of Park Street, the windows step down along the elevation, with each frame individually crafted to precise dimensions. The façade combines timber-framed glazing with aluminium screening to achieve a clean, contemporary finish.
Internally, doors, skirtings and bespoke furniture were supplied to ensure consistency in quality and design throughout the building. Close coordination with Champion Build and Shu Architects enabled the team to meet a demanding programme.
Kitto Construction also received recommendations from Christ Church, further reinforcing the quality and reliability of their work.
Each studio has been designed with both comfort and performance in mind, featuring contemporary interiors, well-equipped kitchens and en-suite bathrooms.
A central MVHR system provides a continuous supply of fresh air while recovering heat, supporting both energy efficiency and indoor air quality. The building’s airtight construction achieves air-loss scores as low as 1–2, while a quantum fog water-mist system enhances fire safety.
Residents also benefit from on-site laundry facilities, 24/7 support and all-inclusive bills, creating a convenient and secure living environment.
The redevelopment successfully restores the historic character of Park Street while introducing a high-quality, future-focused residential offering. The addition of a commercial unit brings renewed activity to the street, while the building itself stands as a strong example of how thoughtful design, modern construction methods and high-quality joinery can unlock the potential of complex urban sites.
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