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First glimpse inside transformation
Stunning images unveiling of former World War 1 assembly hall transformed
Specialist heritage property developer PJ Livesey Group has unveiled stunning new images showcasing the transformation of an historic military assembly hall into an elegant resident’s lounge at its St James Park community in Southsea.
The striking images reveal how the Grade II listed building’s distinctive striped arches, which once echoed with the voices of American servicemen during the First World War, will be reimagined as a sophisticated communal space. The new shots demonstrate a contemporary sage green colour palette with natural timber elements and carefully preserved architectural details.
The remarkable space, originally built in the 1870s by renowned Victorian architect George Rake, served as an entertainment hall when St James operated as US Army Base hospital 33. Historic photographs from 1918 show the grand hall packed with soldiers sitting beneath the Byzantine arches.
The residents lounge forms the centrepiece of St James Park’s extensive communal facilities and compliments the 209 heritage and newly built homes set within mature parkland.
The main building also features dedicated workspaces and other communal facilities creating an inviting environment that balances both relaxation and productivity. Residents also gain access to ample-off street parking and scenic open areas.
Georgina Lynch Managing Director at PJ Livesey Group said:
“We’re incredibly proud to unveil these new images of the resident’s lounge, which epitomises our vision for St James Park – honouring the building’s remarkable history while creating exceptional spaces for modern living.
“The transformation of this former military assembly hall showcases our commitment to preserving architectural heritage with sensitivity and imagination. We’ve worked meticulously to maintain the building’s distinctive character whilst creating a meeting space our residents can enjoy for generations to come.”
Work continues on the Grade II listed main building with the new resident’s lounge expected to be completed alongside the remaining heritage homes, which have nearly all been snapped up already after strong demand. The collection of newly built homes have also seen a strong uptake, with only a handful remaining.
PJ Livesey will soon be offering a new wave of heritage homes at St James Park, offering buyers another chance to secure a piece of Portsmouth history reimagined for contemporary living.