Kensington Gardens in London: exclusive residential area for history and tradition

The project developed by the practice of architect David Chipperfield in the prestigious district of Kensington in London, is one of the most important recently built in the sector of the high-end residential estate in the British capital. De Vere Gardens complex was delivered under the supervision of main contractor Sir Robert McAlpine and is located on the site of the former Kensington Park and Kensington Palace Thistle hotels. It includes two new nine-storey buildings and incorporates three retained Victorian façades in a third building. It provides on a total surface of 300,000 square feet, 97 flats, a 79-space underground car park as well as fitness amenities including a 25 m long pool and spa.The façades which cover a surface of 3500 sq m are characterized by spectacular 3,7 m high windows and sliding doors from floor to ceiling that open up on balconies and terraces with a view on Kensington gardens and Palace. Secco has thus provided about 30 kilometres of profiles from EBE 85 system in bronze to build up these numerous fixtures.Aesthetic and technological excellence has been aimed at by David Chipperfield Architects. Concerning fixtures, the choice has fallen upon EBE 85 by Secco Sistemi in bronze, a naturally noble material. The thinness of profiles and the insertion of concealed vents result in contemporary elegance leaving maximum space to the transparency of glass. Furthermore the high thermal, acoustic and safety performances certified by the best European laboratories and tested on the field, grant absolute quality.The fixed and openable windows and the long string of glazed panes from the lift and slide doors of the 97 flats that enlivens the façades and provide access to balconies and terraces, contribute to the powerful expressive identity of the project. The patinated finish of the profiles brings the final touch. The perfection of design is combined with the guarantee of the ecosustainability of the building.