CALA Homes Case Studies - The Postbox, Birmingham

With its striking facade of render, tiling, granite and timber, CALA's PostBox transformed former light industrial premises into a stunning range of apartments in a prime location next to the internationally-acclaimed Mail Box in the heart of the city of Birmingham.

The visionary MailBox, which features the largest collection of stand-alone designer stores outside of London in addition to a Number of restaurants, cafés and hotels, defines Birmingham's new waterside district and the PostBox successfully enhances the character of this new desirable area.Together, the PostBox and Mail Box beautifully illustrate the dramatic and exciting renaissance of what has long been called The UK's second city.

CALA's expertise at brownfield regeneration was brought to bear during construction when the company faced the combined technical challenges of urban development and the change of use. Much effort was needed to clear the site which was formerly a gasket and glass-making factory and demolish existing redundant buildings within a confined space. More challenging still was the skilful working together of the varying materials making up the facade - brick, render panels, cedar board timber panels, terracotta tiles and the black granite columns standing proud at the front of the building.

Now, three low-rise apartment buildings converge around a central courtyard. Each building varies in height, between four, five and six floors, which enhances the striking visual impact of this development. Housed within are 257 one and two bedroom apartments and penthouses, all of which include a balcony or terrace.

Some of the penthouses feature roof patios.The internal layout is varied and flexible. Most of the apartments have a generously proportioned open-plan living and kitchen area. The apartments and penthouses within the PostBox feature an excellent specification. Designer kitchens include fitments and fixtures by leading manufacturers and contemporary features within the bathrooms include opaque glass basins with chrome upstands.

The homes also benefit from wiring for satellite television, an on-site concierge, underground parking, a video entry system and lifts to all floors.The PostBox also comprises 30 affordable homes.

This Case Study illustrates:

• CALA's ability to gain quick planning decisions following preconsultation through the quickly revised improved planning permission which was achieved within 10 weeks!
• CALA's ability to negotiate a reduced affordable housing provision.
• CALA's original marketing techniques through the CALA New Homes Store.
• CALA's mixed-use experience.