An application for the seven-storey purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) on a surface car park in Britannia Street has been lodged with Camden Borough Council. The proposed development will also provide 60m of community space.Backed by Curlew Capital, the scheme responds to significant technical constraints and involves complex engineering to build over the subterranean rail line beneath the western edge of the north London site.The design features three main elements: a lightweight pavilion above the tunnel supported by an independent raft foundation; a cantilevered western section hung from roof level; and a more substantial eastern block providing structural support.AdvertisementThe building has been designed to step down towards the Grade II-listed 1865 Derby Lodge flats and draws on the areas industrial and residential heritage with its light brickwork, metalwork and perforated screens that complement the conservation areas character.The ground level features a community space, which the AJ100 practice says will offer priority access for local organisations, together with student amenity areas wrapping around a green central courtyard. Source:Sheppard RobsonThe student accommodation includes corridors punctuated by communal nooks designed to create an inviting place for students to congregate and socialise.A landscaped rooftop terrace will have views across London towards St Pancras and the BT Tower.The 31 million-turnover Camden-based practice claims the schemes adaptable layouts mean it could be converted in the future into other compact living uses, such as a hotel, co-living or care facility.AdvertisementThe all-electric proposals aim to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating and will feature air source heat pumps and photovoltaic panels.The faade design responds to solar orientation, with carefully calibrated window proportions and shading elements to maximise daylight and views out while preventing overheating.Sheppard Robson partner Dan Burr said the design demonstrates how technical challenges can drive inventive architectural composition.He added: Through collaboration with our neighbours and the planning officers, weve developed a scheme that not only overcomes significant engineering challenges but that will enhance the conservation area and provide much-needed student accommodation in Londons Knowledge Quarter.A future timsecale is not yet known.Project dataLocation Kings Cross, LondonLocal authorityCamden Borough CouncilType of projectPBSA and community spaceClientCurlew CapitalArchitectSheppard RobsonLandscape architectPAD LandscapesPlanning consultantKnight FrankServices and structural engineerWSPFire engineerHeliosSustainability consultantEnsphereHeritage consultantMontagu EvansProject managerGleedsEarly concept sketch