Stock Woolstencroft revives a Peckham icon to spearhead regeneration

Stock Woolstencroft has redeveloped the site of the Peckham Co-operative department store in south London, reviving a familiar landmark to provide much-needed affordable housing. The project, by the London and Quadrant Housing Association and Tower Homes, is expected to herald a wave of regeneration.

The development provides 68 units for shared ownership and 54 apartments at an affordable rent. It includes one or two-bedroom flats with private balconies, and three-bed family maisonettes with private gardens.

The building’s famous “Co-operative” sign has been restored to dominate its street façade. Behind, a central landscaped courtyard has been conceived to help forge a sense of community, also assisted by a new children’s play area. The courtyard elevation features insulated render panels and metal balconies and balustrades.
Efforts have been made to use re-claimed materials from the original building, and, where used, new brickwork has been selected to match period materials.

The building’s much-loved frontage is part of a local identity arousing the interest of groups such as the Peckham Society in its preservation. “Artefact panels” mounted in metal frames above the main entrance help to maintain a sense of continuity.

Architect Martin Stannard says the project has injected a new confidence into the area. “We wanted to promote a particular urban and architectural identity, to support the wider regeneration of this part of Peckham,” he said.