Situated within Derby’s Friar Gate conservation area, this project occupies a brownfield site and will contribute to the emerging university quarter of the city. The redevelopment of this site, previously used for retail, into luxury student accommodation is being undertaken by Simon Foote Architects.

The site poses challenges due to its proximity to residential properties that oversee the entire area. However, this constraint has paved the way for an innovative design approach that emphasizes privacy while redefining the relationships among neighbouring buildings.

Once a retail bike shop, the site has undergone a transformation over the years, resulting in diverse built forms and styles. Our strategy involves implementing concertinaed facades in the rear blocks, creating a visually dynamic effect, and effectively addressing concerns about overlooking both student studios and the surrounding buildings.

The central space of the site has been thoughtfully utilized to establish a communal landscaped area, fostering social interactions among the students. Meanwhile, the front block integrates seamlessly with the existing street massing, incorporating a twist in the main elevation plan to establish a direct connection between adjacent buildings. Notably, one of these buildings sits further back from the pavement than the other.

The approved scheme will provide 39 luxury student bed/study spaces, each spanning 35m². These accommodations will feature private gardens, entertainment rooms, and a concierge service. As of 2023, construction is underway, and this page will be regularly updated with new images showcasing the project’s progress.