Dolphin Square Restoration Programme: Phase 1

: Pimlico, London

Phase One of the Dolphin Square Restoration Programme redefines one of London’s most significant residential estates as a high-quality, design-led rental development for modern city living.

Completed in April 2025, this phase restored 363 apartments across three residential blocks within the wider 1,234-home estate. It establishes the benchmark for a three-phase transformation that combines heritage conservation with contemporary residential performance. The project has improved every aspect of the resident experience. Externally, it preserves the estate’s neo-Georgian character while introducing a new double-height entrance pavilion, clearer circulation and stronger connections to the 3.5 acres of Grade II-listed gardens. Internally, apartments have been reconfigured to maximise natural light, improve ventilation, increase storage and provide modern, high-quality kitchens and bathrooms. The development is structured around landscape and community. Refined routes, upgraded shared spaces and a comprehensive amenity offer – including fitness, wellness, co-working and social spaces – create a fully integrated residential environment. Sustainability is embedded through extensive fabric retention, low-carbon systems, MVHR, roof insulation, heritage-style glazing and rooftop solar. Across the wider programme, Dolphin Square targets a 95% reduction in operational carbon emissions and an 80% cut in energy demand by completion. Strong leasing performance – raising occupancy from 50% to 98% - demonstrates the market impact of a design-led retrofit approach. Phase One shows how a large-scale heritage estate can be restored with design quality, community value and lasting environmental purpose.