Kelso Cochrane House, Kensal Road, entailed the demolition of the existing single and two storey community buildings and the design and construction of a new building comprising of a community centre and a retail unit at ground floor level, with 38 residential dwellings for social rent on the upper floors. This project also included a first-floor garden terrace which provides a communal amenity space for residents above the community centre.
The design of the building has been strongly influenced by the church of our Lady of the Holy Souls which stands beside it, so that the two buildings sit comfortably and compliment each other. Along the northern elevation, facing Kensal Road facade, the generous openings to the ground floor retail and community units include full height glazing with a white precast concrete surround. These glazed openings provide views in and out of these publicly used spaces, opening the development up and providing engagement with Kensal Road. This project has been designed to be as energy efficient as possible, from a fabric first approach to the use of renewable technology. The project utilises a centralised ASHP (Air Source Heat Pump) to provide hot water via ambient loop. From there, each dwelling is equipped with a WSHP (Water Source Heat Pump) to provide heating, cooling, and hot water.
We’re delighted to say that the project won “Best affordable housing development – less than £20 million” at the Inside Housing Development Awards 2023.
The house was named in memory of Kelso Cochrane, who was murdered in Notting Hill in May 1959. No one has ever been convicted for his killing, and his family and friends continue the fight for justice to this day. A naming ceremony for the building was held on Wednesday, 17 May 2023 – the anniversary of his death, to ensure Kelso is remembered and never forgotten.