Chapel Chic

Valouran, the global pioneering property developer and pacemaker, have begun the development of the former Connaught Chapel, a Grade II listed building in St John’s Wood, into five luxury apartments.

The 14,805 square foot Chapel on St John's Wood Terrace has a rich and varied history, serving a multitude of purposes over the years, from commercial offices to event space, television recording studios, and a squash court. Committed to repurposing and sympathetically transforming historic structures, the 1830s property will be transformed by Valouran into a collection of five luxurious apartments.

Co-founder of Valouran, Alex Michelin comments, "This project is a wonderful addition to the Valouran stable of developments as it is so unique and will provide such incredible spaces for its residents once complete. Arguably one of the most sought-after opportunities in St John’s Wood, we are committed to preserving the architectural heritage of The Chapel whilst delivering homes of the very highest modern standard with excellent environmental credentials. We are really proud of plans for the redevelopment of the building, which ensures the property blends harmoniously into the surrounding streetscape and promises to provide a truly exciting place to live.”

With architecture led by Darling Associates, the vision for The Chapel involves a meticulous restoration and renovation process that honours the building's heritage while introducing contemporary design and state-of-the-art amenities. Interior design firm Gunter&Co has been appointed to curate the interiors of the apartments, which will range in size from two to four bedrooms. The interiors will embrace an understated luxurious approach that takes cues from the building’s rich history, featuring natural materials, from beautiful marbles to light timbers with bronze touches.

With sustainability a key pillar of the business, The Chapel will minimise its carbon footprint by eliminating the use of gas systems, offering residents high-performance mechanical and electrical installations that surpass Part L requirements, in addition to incorporating air source, zero-emission high-efficiency heat pumps. Committed to promoting biodiversity, the development will boast a rich variety of plants, enhancing urban biodiversity and contributing to the improvement of green infrastructure. All materials will be responsibly sourced, and kept local where possible.

One of London’s most desirable residential neighbourhoods, known for its picturesque, tree-lined streets, St John’s Wood’s rich history, characterful high street and abundance of green space is popular amongst homeowners worldwide.

As L-J Andrew discovers in our next issue, Valouran’s pipeline is set to grow further this year with several sites already purchased and identified for future developments across London.