The Alexandre Boyes Tunbridge Wells office opened in 1998 newly redeveloped. The redevelopment was chosen as an ‘outstanding example’ of new building design as part of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) architecture week, designed by local architect Wyatt Glass based in Sevenoaks and Hildenborough.
The Alexandre Boyes Tunbridge Wells office is Grade II listed. The original house dated back to late C18 or early C19 so it was essential that the redevelopment was sympathetic to the building’s history, the town’s eclectic mix of period architecture, conservation status (being in an area of outstanding natural beauty) and Royal status granted by King Edward VII in 1909.
The then MP Archie Norman, one of the judges, said that during the selection process he had been particularly struck by the office.
“It sits very comfortably just across the road from the Conservative Association headquarters, so it is a building I see very often” he said. “Although sympathetic to the area, the design incorporates some very progressive design details. Most notable are the window frames that appear to be unique. The overall result is very attractive.”
Mr Norman added that he hoped that all those involved in town planning had a vision for new buildings in Tunbridge Wells that would help maintain and enhances the “spa town” feeling of the town.
Use of the original article is courtesy of Wyatt Glass
