An iconic London building that hosted early concerts by the Rolling Stones and U2 has been saved by an innovative design by Box Architects.
The Windsor Castle pub in Maida Vale, which was a hub for music acts since the Sixties, closed in 2019. With no buyers to retain it as a bar and venue, YPP Investments stepped in to transform the 19th century landmark into student accommodation.
Box’s design will retain the Harrow Road façade and incorporate a three-storey rear extension to create A1 and A3 commercial space as well as 34-bed accommodation. Modern materials, including a glazed link to connect old and new, will be complemented by a mixed palette of bricks to blend in with other local buildings.
When complete, the building will include commercial space in the basement and ground floor, and high-quality student accommodation – with ensuite bedrooms, shared kitchens, laundry room and communal areas – on the first and second floors.