One of the largest architecture practices based in Scotland, Archial Architects, has won planning consent for its proposal to replace an 'unloved' office block at Cumberland Place in Southampton with a modern high quality development.

The existing building has been vacant for some time and is now subject to vandalism.

Having become an eyesore within this attractive area of Southampton, it is now due to be demolished and replaced by an elegant new 10 storey proposal. The ambitious new building has been carefully designed using stone masonry piers, high quality structural glazing and natural copper cladding.

Lengthy negotiations to achieve full consent from Southampton City Planning and Sustainability’s Planning and Rights of Way Panel involved amending the original design and reducing the overall height of the building by one floor.


Premier Property Group's Grosvenor House Development is designed to maximise the use of the site and will reinvigorate this once popular office location.

The new high quality office accommodation will provide cycle parking and 29 on site secure car parking spaces below ground.

Cameron Walker, director at Archial Architects, said: "The elevations have been designed with reference to the historic treatment along Cumberland Place and Brunswick Place and will present a well defined three storey 'base' and high quality public realm at ground level.

A glazed pavilion form set back at the top level, will reduce the visual impact of the building from Cumberland Place, and will complete the vertical composition when viewed from across the parks.

"The development will replace an unattractive building and will make optimum use of a well established office site.

"We anticipate the high quality materials and contemporary design will enhance the area, become a catalyst and set a new appropriate 'benchmark' for future regeneration projects within the area."

The building is owned by Premier Property Group (PPG) which is the property arm of Murray International Holdings Group, owned by Sir David Murray.

The Archial Group Plc employs 170 staff in Scotland, operating from offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee and Inverness.

(GK/BMcC)