The Project The aim of this project was to create a masterplan for the development of a site, bounded by Langley Street and Mercer Street to the north and south respectively, which would create a new and vibrant destination in the heart of Covent Garden Conservation Area. The Brief The brief for this mixed use, office and retail development, which comprised of new and refurbished buildings, to be set around a central public piazza included the following objectives; maximisation of the amount of quality commercial space; the inclusion of a new retail destination; and the creation of a vibrant environment that would attract retail footfall and businesses. The Chapman Architects Approach The masterplan Chapman Architects designed incorporates both a new pedestrian link between St. Martin's Court and Long Acre and a new public piazza, surrounded by a series of new shops and restaurants. At the heart of the scheme lies the entrance to the offices, which are to be located on the upper levels of the project which in total, includes the creation of 10,000sqm of retail and office accommodation. Conservation was key to this project, both from a planning perspective and in the maintenance of the existing character of this historic area, with its heritage in the brewing, market and coach works trades. The scheme consists of a rich mix of existing historic buildings, contrasted with new build elements. In-line with Westminster City Council's sustainable planning principles, the scheme balances environmental sustainability and conserving heritage. It incorporates planting to reduce the building's carbon footprint, encourage biodiversity in the area and create a pleasant environment. Similarly, passive solar lighting, designed to maximise the use of sunlight and to mitigate its impact on environmental systems has been specified. This is complemented by a clear waste management policy and the minimisation of the embodied energy of the proposed construction.