KPF’s work in London’s historic Covent Garden with Capital & Counties (Capco) has been recognised by the New York Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, with Floral Court named as a winner in the 2019 AIANY Design Awards.
An in-depth analysis of the historic London district of Covent Garden and an exploration into its potential for enhancement was the starting point of this project, as part of a larger masterplan. The result is a vibrant new precinct that is activated around the clock by the reintroduction of residential use to upper stories, increased retail frontage, high-quality restaurants and a new public courtyard which is the setting for dining and public seating along a newly-created pedestrian route.
An unremarkable 1980s office block has been replaced with a new building, the contemporary style of which was informed by the brick architecture of the warehouse district originally affiliated with Covent Garden market. A dramatic feature corner, an arrangement of bay windows inspired by the stacked fruit and vegetable crates of the former market, makes an important contribution to the street scene, completing the long view.
The project involved the reuse of a number of historic, landmark buildings, and restoration of period interiors. Historic terraced houses have been restored and returned to residential use on the upper stories, and period interiors have been reimagined and reused as reception and retail space.
Winning projects will be recognised at the Honors and Awards Luncheon on April 15, 2019, and all winning work will be exhibited in the 2019 AIANY Design Awards Exhibition. Read more and view the full list of recipients here.