Express & Star

Luxury Wolverhampton flats snapped up despite not being built

Nearly half of the luxury flats on offer in a former Wolverhampton office block have been snapped up - despite the building still being months from completion.

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An artist's impression of Coniston House in Wolverhampton

The attraction of living in one of Wolverhampton’s most well-known buildings is proving to be popular with homebuyers and the apartments are flying off the market, according to the developers.

The old Coniston House office building at Chapel Ash, on the western gateway to Wolverhampton Ring Road, is being converted into 42 luxury one and two-bedroom apartments.

The landmark building, which will be known as Belvedere Residence, is being transformed by Dudley-based developer Blackacres Limited with Wolverhampton architect Tweedale responsible for the innovative design.

Issues

Mike Bates, Tweedale director of architecture, said converting the tired 1970s former office building required his team to resolve a number of issues.

"The site came with its own challenges due to its proximity to the busy ring road, but we have put together acoustic insulation and fresh air ventilation systems, which will mean that residents comfort is maintained in a 'city living' environment," he said.

Coniston House used to be an office block

"We needed to take an innovative approach to the design of the Belvedere Residence – carefully coordinating designs into the existing concrete structure to provide attractive and contemporary plans for each apartment was pretty tricky.

"The new façade of the building uses an insulated render system giving a contemporary and fresh appearance, without the issues that might arise with a rain screen system."

Striking

Richard Unwin from Blackacres added: "Tweedale has come up with a striking design and Belvedere Residence is going to be an iconic city centre building, so it isn’t surprising that over 50 per cent of the apartments have been reserved already."

Coniston House has been empty for two years, last used by 500 Marston’s office workers before they moved to the company’s new headquarters over the road.

It had been used by the now defunct Wolverhampton Primary Care Trust and Bentley Homes before that.

Belvedere Residence is expected to be complete by early 2019, with apartments ranging from £99,000 for a one bed to £145,000 for a large two bed.

The properties include lift access to upper floors and remote, secure parking.