Tanners Yard 3br Penthouse Design

We have embarked on an exciting journey to conduct a feasibility study for a unique

3-bedroom penthouse situated in the historical Tanners Yard Building. Nestled in the Bermondsey Conservation area, this iconic structure, dating back to 1880, has a rich heritage as a former tannery. Its prime location on Long Lane places it just a short stroll from notable landmarks such as London Bridge, Borough Market, and the vibrant Bermondsey Street.

Current Layout and Proposed Modifications

The entrance level of the penthouse hosts three well-appointed bedrooms, one of which boasts an en-suite bathroom. A striking spiral steel staircase leads to the loft level, where the kitchen and living room are seamlessly integrated, offering a modern living space that contrasts with the building’s historic facade.

Our feasibility study is currently exploring three transformative layout scenarios:

Swapping the Bedrooms with the Living and Kitchen Area: This rearrangement aims to optimize the flow and functionality of the space.
Enlarging the Dormer Windows and Reorganizing the Living Room: By enhancing natural light and redefining the living area, we aim to create an ambiance that is both welcoming and visually appealing.
A Combination Approach: This involves both swapping the rooms and enlarging the windows, to dramatically improve the living experience.

Enhancements and Sustainability Measures

In addition to layout changes, we propose several upgrades to elevate comfort and sustainability:

Underfloor Heating: For a touch of luxury and efficiency in heating.
Double Glazing for Crittall Windows: To improve thermal and acoustic insulation.
Mechanical Heat Recovery Ventilation (MHRV): This system will ensure excellent air quality without compromising on energy efficiency.
Acoustic Insulation: Enhanced wall insulation to ensure privacy and tranquility.
Photovoltaic Panels: Installed atop the mansard roof, these are designed to cover essential electricity consumption, aligning with our commitment to sustainability.

Existing Layout: Charm Meets Constraint

The current configuration, while full of potential, presents a few limitations:

Entrance Level: Three generously sized bedrooms are tucked into the lower floor, including a master suite with en-suite bathroom. However, this level feels spatially compressed and disconnected from the natural light above.
Loft Level: Accessed via a dramatic steel spiral staircase, the upper floor houses the kitchen and living area. Though open and airy, the small dormer windows limit daylight and views, underplaying the penthouse’s true potential.

While functional, the current layout doesn’t make full use of the home’s verticality or panoramic outlook—two elements we believe are essential to elevating the living experience.

Proposed Layouts: Three Distinct Design Scenarios

Our design team has explored three compelling layout strategies, each offering a different lens on how to unlock the penthouse’s full potential:

1. Vertical Inversion

Swap the bedrooms and the kitchen/living area:

This bold reconfiguration places kitchen and living spaces on the lower level, bringing the bedrooms to the top floor.
The benefit? More privacy and serenity for sleeping quarters, while the social spaces benefit from better vertical integration and entry-level access.

2. Light Maximization

Enlarge the dormer windows and reorient the loft:

By expanding the dormers, we flood the top floor with natural light, making the kitchen and lounge truly shine.
Reorganizing furniture placement enhances the spatial rhythm and creates visual harmony throughout.

3. Hybrid Approach

The best of both worlds:

This scenario combines the layout inversion with enhanced glazing, delivering a dramatic transformation that is both visually and functionally elevated.
It reimagines the penthouse as a light-filled sanctuary above the city—steeped in history, yet effortlessly modern.

What’s Next?

With the feasibility phase complete and client feedback in hand, we’re moving toward finalizing the preferred layout. Once agreed, we’ll begin the concept design phase, where the penthouse’s new identity will take shape through mood boards, materials, and 3D visualizations.

Stay Tuned for More

The Tanners Yard Penthouse is a story of transformation—where heritage architecture meets intelligent, forward-thinking design. We look forward to sharing more as this remarkable space evolves into a bespoke home that reflects its past while embracing its future.