Henrietta House Radisson, 27 – 29 Henrietta Street, Bathwick, Bath

Proposal
Internal and external alterations to a Grade I Listed Building to create 1no. Bedroom.
Our Response

27-29 Henrietta Street form part of a group of Grade I late 18th century terrace of townhouses situated within the Bath conservation area and World Heritage Site. 27-29 Henrietta Street now currently functions as a hotel. The terrace forms part of the setting of the Grade I late 18th century terrace of townhouses adjacent at 6-19 Henrietta Street. The terrace retains a strong architectural uniformity in design and detailing with stepped frontages in Bath stone ashlar and elliptical sash windows and door openings on the ground floor, although 27-29 Henrietta Street does deviate due to the historic archway through the front façade with rear access to Henrietta Mews. Consequently, the rear of the terrace is publicly visible in short-range views to the east, with a number of later extensions and alterations indicating a narrative of change as part of the terrace’s distinctive backland character.

We note an apparent error in the proposed rear elevation in which the drawing has been flipped, with the archway on the left hand side rather than the right hand side.

We consider the proposed replacement of the modern metal-framed window in the 1970s rear extension is acceptable and would not constitute a loss of historic fabric. We feel this is a positive opportunity to instate a more traditional window profile and material which would be more visually harmonious with the special architectural and historic interest of a Grade I building.

In light of the declared Climate Emergency, BPT is supportive in principle of sensitive sustainability retrofits, where deemed appropriate, within the historic environment. Alterations are expected to be visually coherent with the character of the building, and the wider shared character of the listed terrace and surrounding conservation area.

Therefore, we are supportive of the opportunity for the installation of double glazing where this would not constitute harm to historic fabric. However, it is unclear as to what type of double glazing is being proposed from the proposed window details. Considering the degree of public visibility, the intentionally traditional aesthetic of the rear extension, and the contribution towards the sensitive, built-up setting of a group of Grade I listed buildings, we strongly recommend that slimlite glazing is considered as a more visually appropriate alternative. Standard double glazing is typically more unsympathetic to the character of a listed building due to its chunkier profile and ‘double reflection’, whereas slimlite glazing allows for a more slender profile to match the existing first floor sash windows and a more coherent visual finish.

Application Number: 21/03098/LBA
Application Date: 30/06/2021
Closing Date: 19/08/2021
Address: Henrietta House Radisson, 27 - 29 Henrietta Street, Bathwick, Bath
Our Submission Status: Comment