The recently restored iconic Old School House has been hailed as "a striking example of breathing new life into a neglected location".
When its original function as a school ended in 1966, the building, in the Bradshaw Chapel Conservation Area of Bolton went through a series of incarnations - Dave’s Aquarium, a Beefeater restaurant and then once abandoned, a haven for vandals, fire setters and fly tippers. Purchased by Panda Capital in 2017, plans were then set in motion to turn the site into a residential development.
Conserve and enhance were Nick Moss Architects’ watchwords when embarking on this bespoke project.
Nestling in an established natural environment complete with mature trees, the original 19th century building has been converted into a mix of 14 bespoke duplexes and first-rate apartments, all for the private rental market. Sympathetic to its original form, the exterior of the older building has, say the architects, enjoyed minimal interventions, with lengthened windows, balconies and rooflights; a model of augmenting rather than meddling.
They add that restoration ensures that the Old School House can once again take its place as a welcome local landmark.
Practice owner Nick Moss said, ‘It’s been a privilege to work on such a meaningful project and produce a scheme that’s appealing, modern and highly sustainable but entirely compatible with much-loved existing buildings.’
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel