Oakley Square Developments Ltd has appointed BRAC Contracts to add a two-storey extension to St Matthews Lodge overlooking Oakley Square Gardens in Camden.

Eight two- and three-bedroom apartments will be constructed in the airspace above the existing residential block which is currently comprised of 35 residential units.

Work on site commences this month and completion is anticipated by June 2023.

Michelle Lowe, Founding Director of Redshell Consulting, the Contract Administrator and Quantity Surveyor on the project, commented: “Extending buildings upwards is an increasingly popular option for housing delivery, especially in densely populated areas such as London. Construction does, however, need to be carried out by those with experience of this highly specialised approach.

“BRAC Contracts not only demonstrated an impressive track record of completing similar projects, but that they were able to do so within the budgetary parameters and within the intended timeframe. We’re looking forward to working with the team over the coming 12 months and to seeing the vision for St Matthew’s Lodge become a reality.”

Designed by Echlin architectural design firm, the building will also see a programme of improvement works that include reconfiguration of the existing communal entrance lobby, a new lift shaft, upgrades to the post room, bin storage and bicycle store. External landscaping will also be carried out.

The new apartments will be built using light gauge steel, a modern method of construction which offers many benefits including being lighter, more cost-efficient, and robust fire solutions which enable more efficient overall wall construction performance. Being prefabricated off-site also means quicker installation time and less disruption to existing residents.

All apartments will each benefit from flexible, open-plan living areas, good levels of natural light and access to private external amenity spaces via an external roof terrace or balcony.

Adam Clark, Director at BRAC Contracts, said: “Having recently completed our own airspace development in nearby Tufnell Park, we’re delighted to be starting work here at St Matthew’s Lodge and to have the opportunity to demonstrate our expertise to the teams at Redshell Consulting, Echlin, and Oakley Square Developments.

“The existing structure is located on the corner of Oakley Square and Crowndale Road but doesn’t currently command the prominence that its location provides. These new apartments will allow St Matthew’s Lodge to realise that prominence and the eventual residents will enjoy spectacular views across London.”