The Site & Context
Site Location and Local Setting
The proposed development is located at the junction of Matthias Road and Cowper Road in Dalston, London N16, within the London Borough of Hackney.
The site spans approximately 2,082 square metres (0.21 hectares) and is generally flat in topography.
The immediate surroundings of the site are a mix of residential, educational, and community uses, with:
St Matthias CE Primary School and St Matthias Church to the East, local residential blocks and terraces to the North and West, shops and local amenities within walking distance. Green spaces and play areas distributed throughout the area.
Historically, the area has had a light industrial character to the North, while the west and east are predominantly residential. This makes the site well-positioned to host a low-impact, flexible-use building that supports both local businesses and neighbourhood living.
Existing Photos
Site History - Anvil House
The original part of the Anvil House building was built in 1931. Its name is derived from its association with the forging of metal, as “Anvil” typically refers to a metalworking tool used by blacksmiths.
The site currently has no formal heritage designations nor is it located within a conservation area, albeit there are two listed buildings within the vicinity of the structure:
• GRADE 1 LISTED: St Matthias Church, Stoke Newington – located to the north of the site
• GRADE 2 LISTED: The Army & Navy Public House – located to the south of the site
Although the building gives the appearance from Matthias Road of one large scale consolidated development, it has actually evolved over a period of time, being extended bit by bit from the original section, of only 3 bays, which was built in the 1930s through to the last addition which was built in the late 1980s. The façade to Matthias Road therefore masks a collection of smaller buildings which creates inefficient floor plates and stifles accessibility throughout the building.
Access and Transport
The site is situated on the junction of Matthias Road and Cowper Road as Matthias Road bends towards the south. The site is highly accessible by public and private transport:
Bus
The site is served by public transport with a stop located on Matthias Road to the west of the site. The stop is 100m west of the site. Bus stops are also located to the south of Matthias Road.
Rail
Dalston Kingsland overground is located approximately 0.4 miles to the south of the site. Canonbury overground is located approximately 0.7 miles to the south-west of the site.
Road
The site sits at the junction of Cowper Road and Matthias Road.
Walking and Cycling
Footpath are provided along the perimeter of the west and south boundaries of the site. Roads are suitable for a bike although no on-street designated cycle lanes are provided.
Opportunities & Constraints
The redevelopment of the site presents an opportunity to optimize its potential, replacing an outdated and inefficient building. The project will create 3-4 full-time jobs and 50 positions within the managed FabLab workshops, which will support startups and promote further job creation through increased site density. Additionally, the redevelopment will enhance storage facilities for small and medium businesses in the local area, contributing to further indirect employment.
The introduction of the FabLabs will activate the frontages along both Matthias Road and Cowper Road, improving the streetscape. The removal of crossovers and a vehicular ramp access on Cowper Road will benefit local schools and pedestrians by reducing traffic congestion. The new building will also be set back 2.5m from the boundary, in contrast to the current structure, which is built directly on it.
However, several constraints must be considered. The height of the existing and emerging surrounding buildings sets a datum for the new structure, influencing its massing. Proximity to a neighboring school and existing boundary requirements will need to be addressed. Potential daylight impacts will be assessed through modeling, and views of St Matthias Church, Stoke Newington, must be preserved as a key sightline. Additionally, the design will need to establish a cohesive architectural language that harmonizes with both the current and future urban context.