What goes into a luxury period conversion?

The original building (basement, ground, first, and second floors) was built in 1836 and had been occupied by the West London Buddhist Centre (WLBC) since 1995, comprising a religious facility on the basement and ground levels with residential units above. It had since become run down and was no longer fit for purpose due to increased popularity and take-up among the Centre the building was simply not big enough and a new premises was required.

We acquired the site in 2013, recognising a unique land swap opportunity whereby the WLBC could be relocated into our One Westbourne Gardens mixed-use development. This move provided a newer and larger home for the organisation, while presenting an opportunity to rejuvenate the period building. Working alongside the conservation officer, Fruition Properties ensured the work not only preserved the conservation area, but further enhanced it.

Our team of master craftsmen undertook an extensive, yet sympathetic programme of extension and conversion work, facilitating expansion of residential floor space from c1,000 sq ft to over 3,000 sq ft. This included the provision of separate entrances and staircases to each of the apartments, creating a more homely atmosphere for residents. Furthermore, a substantial enhancement to the rear elevation included improved fenestration and the delivery of an outdoor terrace on the first floor. We also addressed the poor remodeling of the basement and lower ground floor, which the WLBC had  inherited, and provided increased ceiling heights and more light.

The original façade was also revitalised, highlighting original ornate Victorian features, alongside minor alterations to boundary walls and the installation of new railings in keeping with the local vernacular.

The end result is a luxury period conversion comprising two stunning, light-filled apartments which enjoy exceptional levels of light and specification. Apartment one (three bedrooms) occupies the ground and lower ground floor, spanning 1,647 sq ft plus garden space, while apartment two (two bedrooms) occupies the first and second floors, measuring 1,349 sq ft plus terrace space.

Both apartments at 94 Westbourne Park Villas feature large living/kitchen/dining rooms which enjoy grand ceiling heights and many windows, in addition to luxuriously designed bathrooms. Further high specification features include bespoke Roundhouse kitchens with granite worktops, bespoke herringbone parquet flooring with underfloor heating, programmable Rako mood lighting and multi-room audio entertainment systems.

 While both apartments share exacting levels of fit and finish, each residence has unique design traits, including a ‘floating’ timber and glass staircase in apartment one and a zig-zag design staircase in apartment two. In addition to these, each apartment also has its own outside space, a luxury for this location.  Secure cycle and bin storage has also been provided.

Mani Khiroya, managing director, comments, “Westbourne Park Villas is an example of how an innovative approach to development can result in a positive outcome that achieves something different to what is usually expected. Working with the West London Buddhist Centre has allowed us to unlock this site, transforming it into two residences that truly stand out, while also providing the Centre with a new purpose built facility.”