The proposal for the residential complex "The Oren," designed by Stanton Williams, draws inspiration from the modern architecture that characterizes this area of London. The project is ingeniously resolved by creating four distinct, interconnected volumes that follow the natural contours of the land.
The program comprises 46 two- and three-bedroom apartments, four penthouses, two suites, and social areas with spaces for entertaining, dining, and a hydrotherapy pool. The ground floor is integrated into the terrain—ensuring accessible and comfortable circulation—and the upper floors are strategically set back to integrate them into the landscape.
Sustainability was a priority in the building's construction. Natural materials such as brick and wood are used, and it operates with an electrical system that uses renewable energy through photovoltaic panels located on the roof.
"The Oren" residential complex by Stanton Williams. Photograph by Jack Hobhouse.
Project description by Stanton Williams
The Oren is a welcoming retirement development that seamlessly integrates architecture with its verdant setting on the edge of London's Hampstead Heath.
Situated on an unique site surrounded by mature trees and bordering Golders Hill Park, within Hampstead Heath, The Oren is designed to encourage community whilst respecting individual privacy. The development comprises 46 residences – two and three bedroom apartments, including four penthouses and two guest suites– thoughtfully arranged across four interlinked volumes, with facades and balconies oriented to capture different aspects of the spectacular landscape views.
The site presented several design challenges, including a sloping and overgrown wooded landscape that made access difficult, combined with the need to minimize overlooking, maintain visual amenity and mitigate traffic noise from neighboring roads.
The architectural concept ingeniously addressed these constraints by developing four distinct but connected elements that that follow the natural contours of the site. The ground floor is carefully nestled into the terrain, ensuring that homeowners can move freely and comfortably throughout the space. Strategic ‘setbacks’ of the upper floors help the building blend into its surroundings, reducing visual impact and preserving the area's natural character.
This approach not only gives the development a more human scale, but also ensures that each apartment benefits from a private outdoor space – either a balcony or terrace – offering homeowners beautiful views over the treetops or gardens. The result is a thoughtful living environment that celebrates its natural surroundings.
The building offers varying levels of sociability and support, from amenities such as a hydrotherapy pool to relaxed social spaces for dining and entertainment. Circulation routes have been meticulously planned to ensure ease of movement throughout, with particular attention paid to accessibility. Natural daylight floods the generous circulation spaces, avoiding the institutional character of long, dark corridors.
Inspired by North London's outstanding legacy of modernist residential architecture, The Oren aims to make a meaningful contribution to this tradition of exemplary design. The careful integration of building and landscape has been achieved through close collaboration with renowned landscape architect Christopher Bradley-Hole. Together we have created thoughtfully designed communal gardens and facilities that foster a strong sense of community, while creating a seamless dialogue between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Sustainability is embedded in every aspect of the design. Built to last and to be adaptable in the long term, the all-electric building incorporates on-site renewable energy through rooftop photovoltaic panels, while the passive design approach maximizes daylight while minimizing solar gain. A fabric-first strategy ensures high thermal performance through high levels of insulation and airtightness. The scheme also features green roofs, water attenuation tanks and bird boxes integrated into the brickwork.
The material palette emphasizes natural, responsibly sourced materials, with brick and timber creating warm, tactile surfaces throughout. Generous ceiling heights in communal areas and carefully considered details contribute to the building's residential rather than institutional character.
The Oren offers homeowners – many of whom have long-standing connections to Hampstead and North London – the opportunity to remain in their cherished neighborhood while becoming part of a supportive community. It is a building that feels grounded in its context and which strives to create a genuine sense of home for all its residents.
