Westminster Fire Station is an eclectic London residences housed in an Edwardian gem.
Built in 1906, the Grade II-listed Fire Station situated in the heart of Westminster, London, is believed to have witnessed many historical moments in the fire brigade – from the end of horse-drawn engines in 1921, the admission of women during WWII, to the first female firefighter in 1982.
Today, this Edwardian gem with history galore is being reimagined into a luxury residential address by the Alchemi Group, and Far East Orchard, bringing to the market a rare collection of 17 one, two and three-bedroom apartments.
The first phase sees the launch of nine residences ranging from 421 square feet to 1,490 square feet, including a 699 square foot one-bedroom abode now for sale at £1,500,000.
Helmed by Laura Marino, creative director and co-founder at Alchemi Group, and founder of interior design studio, Studio L, London, the dwelling draws from singer André 3000, and Outkast’s hit “So Fresh, So Clean”, for a joyful Wes Anderson vibe.
Just like the rest of the 16 apartments, Marino incorporates diverse patterns and colour palettes in her design language to create an eclectic look, completed with bespoke kitchen cabinetry and ironmongery, a marble-clad en suite bathroom adorned with antique gold ironmongery from Lefroy Brooks, along with contemporary, antique and vintage pieces juxtaposed throughout.
Situated in the heart of the vibrant Victoria neighbourhood, Westminster Fire Station comprises two connected buildings – the traditional “Fire Station” that houses six apartments, and a new building known as the “Station House”, which offers 11 apartments.
The exterior of the Station House features rows of custom-made iridescent glazed bricks as a modern interpretation of the Edwardian Portland stone that graces the adjoining Fire Station, with bespoke brass screens adorning the rear façade. Bridging the two buildings is an enclosed residents’ courtyard, which was once the turning circle for the engine bays and stables for horses.
Led by Marino and Jennifer Beningfield, from Openstudio Architects, the development sees a tasteful blend of old and new, juxtaposing iconic features from the old fire station such as the exposed steel beams, original glazed brick tiles and the three original carriage doors (one of which serves as the residents’ entrance) with contemporary elements. Herringbone pattern can also be found throughout the development as a nod to the building’s former life.
Westminster Fire Station is well-connected to the rest of London, with St James’s Park Station, Victoria Station and the Westminster Station all within walking distance. Residents can also enjoy fine dining on their doorstep, with the fire station’s former Engine Room now turned into Michelin-starred chef Atul Kochhar’s new restaurant Mathura.
