Seven Cottages and Shop, Bromborough Port Estate, Port Sunlight (Architectural Competition)

This design for these cottages was awarded the first premium by Mr. Geoffrey Lucas, FRIBA, the assessor in the competition promoted by Messrs Lever Brothers Limited, just lately. The following conditions had to be observed: That the cost should not exceed £1,500 for the group, £200 per cottage, and £100 in addition for the shop. The sites were set out 80 feet deep, and the widths were left to the competitors to decide, with a minimum of 17 feet. The position of the group was to be a corner site. The scheme illustrated shows the treatment suggested for the four corners of two cross roads forming a shopping centre or square. Strict economy in planning was essential, as the living room had to provide an area of not less than 170 sq. ft. and the scullery 100 sq ft., and the height from floor to floor was to be 9 feet, 9 in. Back yards approached from back roads were to be provided, divided by brick walls. The materials to be used externally are rough cast over stock 'brickwork with red facing bricks where shown, sand faced tiles for the roof covering, and elm boarding in the gables. A plinth of smooth trowelled cement, tarred 2 feet above ground, runs round the block on three sides. The shop front is suggested for general use, but the designs would have to be individually varied in detail according to the various trades to be provided for. The architect is Mr Ernest G. Theakston, FRIBA, 36, King Street, London, and Wendover, Bucks.

Reference           Building News 4 August 1915 Page118 and illustration