Ravenscourt Park Hospital, an architectural treasure in the London borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, is on the verge of becoming completely different. The planning committee of Hammersmith and Fulham Council approved its own redevelopment plan. The Royal Masonic Hospital first welcomed patients in 1933. Since 2006, the site has mostly sat dormant, though a few film productions have utilized it as a set.
The hospital, recognized for its architectural significance as “Britain’s first major example of the International Modernist architectural style,” received the Royal Institute of British Architects’ gold medal upon its opening. With deep history comes deep challenges. In recent years, the building has struggled, inspiring plans for revitalization.
The approved redevelopment project will transform the formerly-vacant hospital into 140 apartments and a 65-bed community care home. Plans include demolishing and rebuilding block E, a 1970s extension, to house both the care home and affordable housing units. The 56-acre site will be completely redeveloped, creating new uses for all four hospital blocks. Three of them will be residential units, while one will be for community use.
According to the redevelopment proposal, the community-oriented block will feature workspaces and a café, fostering interaction among residents and visitors. Only 21 of the new homes—15% of the units, will be affordable housing. To address this shortcoming, developers have committed a £2.7 million contribution to off-site affordable housing.
Historic England’s stated concern was that large rooftop extensions should not be permitted if they would seriously harm a building’s significance. The planning committee’s unanimous approval represents a truly strong commitment to preserving the site’s historical elements. Duncan Brisbane, the lead spokesman for the project articulated the bigger idea behind the redevelopment.
“The proposal represents a rare opportunity to sensitively, sustainably, and inclusively regenerate a nationally important building.” – Duncan Brisbane
Nearby residents have loudly supported the plans, highlighting the historic hospital’s gorgeous architectural details. They were pleased the plan would keep and rejuvenate key features like the building’s iconic curved balconies and marble front entrance hall.
“We welcome the retention and restoration of the building’s significant architectural elements, such as the curved balconies and marble entrance hall.” – Residents
Aside from its eventual reuse as residential properties, Ravenscourt Park Hospital has since received further fame in the film world. The site has produced a diverse array of productions. Specifically, it will serve as the backdrop for the much-anticipated 2024 Amy Winehouse biopic “Back to Black” and the award-winning 2006 drama “The Queen.” Its distinctive architecture and deep historical atmosphere won over the judges’ hearts. Consequently, it was awarded the Location of the Year crown at this year’s Global Production Awards in Cannes.
The plan for the re-development includes impressive landscaping elements. Relax on a lush courtyard and winding cream-colored walkways that envelop a shimmering cyan pool, enhancing the eye-catching aesthetic of both private and shared spaces.
Even given some concerns about the potential effects of redevelopment on the area around the zoo, local stakeholders are hopeful. Stephen Walker, a representative involved in discussions about the project, emphasized the complexities of balancing heritage preservation with modern residential needs.
“We have worked with officers to maximise the affordable housing component of the scheme, which is a significant achievement [given] the heritage constraints.” – Stephen Walker
The historic site is opening a new chapter in its 235-year-long history. Local residents are excited about the opportunity to repurpose Ravenscourt Park Hospital and rebuild a healthy, new residential neighborhood while retaining its historic character.
