18-20 Lower Hillgate
Client: Private
Location: Stockport
Completion Date: January 2023
The revival of a dilapidated 19th Century end-of-terrace building which once housed a dairy shop. We lovingly restored the building, reinstating its historic shopfront to re-establish its presence along an important streetscape within the Hillgate Conservation Area. The building will bring two new businesses to the growing Stockport community, a hairdressers and with a speakeasy bar above, accessed via a secret doorway.
Proposed
Existing
A restoration rescue mission
The building was in need of significant structural and fabric repairs.It was a delicate balance of restoring what we could of the existing building, whilst sympathetically inserting new elements to complement the heritage.
Paying homage to history
An in-depth study of archive photos inspired the design of the new shopfront Its design respects traditional detailing, whilst also meeting the needs of a modern retail space. Internally, the vaulted timber roof structure, with exposed rafters and feature trusses, brings a contemporary feel and gives the small footprint and big impact!
Before
Tiny footprint, big impact!
The project is the latest completed project along Lower Hillgate in Stockport Old Town. It is a valuable contribution to the wider Rediscovering The Underbanks scheme, a heritage-led regeneration initiative which supports local businesses, building owners and community members to help the area fulfil its potential.
Design Process: Ironing out the creases throughout the stages
There are always surprises when working with existing buildings. We utilised 3D digital models, detailed surveys and site visits to anticipate issues before starting on site.
