Description
Oaklands known as a centre of learning will soon become an innovative scheme of studios and one and two bedroom apartments. Through a carefully conceived strategy of conversion, refurbishment and new building, Oaklands will breathe new life and vitality into the existing buildings.
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A stunning urban parkland setting, combining ultra modern new buildings with distinctive listed buildings meticulously restored to their former glory, a blend of historic character and every modern convenience... there’s no doubt that Oaklands ticks every box for the sophisticated modern homebuyer.
However, Oaklands is slightly different, offering a quite unprecedented opportunity: the chance to live in a modern masterpiece whose design has inspired architects for almost 50 years. Admittedly, when most people talk “listed buildings”, they’re referring to olde worlde charm. And those who know the college – and walked its corridors or studied in its classrooms – might question which part is listed. After all, these buildings aren’t Victorian, or carved from stone or even constructed in brick.
But the truth is that the architecture of the college was ground-breaking in its time. A product of the era when modernism was embraced as the brave new world, Oaklands College was designed by Hertfordshire County Architects Department and constructed between 1958 and 1960. In those days, the council’s Architects’ Department was the most progressive practice in the country: a real melting pot of ideas, pioneering modern principles throughout the area. And at a time of severe material shortages, the seven separate pavilions that made up the college were designed together as a whole, using standardised elements in a very economic way.
Glass, steel, concrete and timber all formed part of the ‘kit of parts’ used throughout the development, whether the resulting buildings extended over one or four storeys. Yet despite their economy of construction, their design was elegant and refined, inspiring many similar – although rarely as successful.
Specification
With all the energy and attention to detail that has gone into the regeneration of Oaklands – the painstaking refurbishment of the listed buildings, coupled with the sympathetic design of new additions – it should come as no surprise that the specification of each apartment is second to none. In fact, the avant garde modern architecture opens up to reveal innovative interiors, where
every effort has been made to complement the quality of the external design. It’s the little details that make the difference: striking communal entrance spaces set the standard from the minute you’re buzzed through the door, with clean, contemporary décor and sleek staircases. Carpet on the stairs, which continues into the upper corridors, and heating throughout offers a warm welcome to residents and visitors alike, while a video entry system allows you to choose who shares your personal space.
Leisure facilities
Just minutes from the centre of St. Albans, Oaklands is a truly unique place to live. Once a focal point for learning within the area, it is now an exquisite setting for spectacular new homes. Nestling amidst the clipped lawns where students used to picnic, surrounded by lush planting and mature trees, the sleek pavilions which once formed Oaklands College have now been added to and are ready for a new term.
St. Albans is one of several places that, by repute, has the most pubs per square mile in the UK. But it’s not just the sheer number of watering-holes and eating houses within walking distance of your apartment, it’s the quality of venues that will give you cause for thought.
Even the ubiquitous chain bars and restaurants seem to operate at a higher standard.
From Oaklands to Oxford Street in less than an hour? That should raise the heart rate of any ardent shopper. But don’t let it stop you from exploring St. Albans’ own retail emporia on your doorstep – you may find that a journey to the big smoke is surplus to requirements.
Local shopping
A delightful historic setting, oozing character from every cobbled street and alleyway. An attractive high street, offering every amenity and service you could ever wish to avail of. Big name brands, small but perfectly formed boutiques… and a vibrant street market… what more could the shopaholic desire? Without overselling it, St. Albans is a shopper’s paradise. Its excellent range of stores extends beyond George Street and the High Street, with a tantalising array of boutiques running from St Peter’s Street to Holywell Hill and from Market Place to French Row.
Nearest schools:
- Aboyne Lodge Junior Mixed and Infant School - Primary (0.1 miles)
- Maple School - Primary (0.2 miles)
- St Albans High School for Girls - Primary (0.2 miles)
Nearest stations:
St. Albans
(0.4 miles)
St. Albans Abbey
(0.7 miles)
Park Street
(2.0 miles)
Site plan
About Nicholas King Homes plc
An Introduction to Nicholas King Homes
Since company founder Nicholas King purchased his first site in Marlow in 1991, Nicholas King Homes has earned a reputation for excellence whilst growing to be one of the Home Counties’ leading privately owned house builders. With headquarters in Penn, Buckinghamshire, and a committed to the highest standards of build quality and specification, it proudly boasts an impressive portfolio of developments, largely around the M25 to the north and west of the capital.
From the outset, the company has committed itself to the highest levels of originality, creativity and quality over quantity, a philosophy which it strictly adheres to, and backed by an overwhelming vision and commitment to standards of customer care, the company has gained a reputation to be proud of.
