London Road Progress Update: 18th March 2025
- Matt Baker
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 minutes ago
An update from Matt Baker: From Shopfront to Shared Living
We’re back with a big update from 152–154 London Road in Portsmouth, and it’s all starting to take shape.
Watch the video below for Matt's latest update, or keep reading for the highlights.
From Skip Alternative to Site Hub
We made a savvy cost-saving move early on: instead of hiring skips, we picked up a tipper truck. Not only has it saved money, but it's also made waste management more efficient on-site.
The front elevation has seen a transformation, with a new roof now in place and the shop frontage fully changed. The bin store is being finished off, and hoarding will soon be going up with signage for "Shared Living Coming Soon."
Working Top Down: What’s Inside
We’re approaching the fit-out working top-down, which means the ground floor still needs the most attention, but everything above is moving swiftly. Doors are being installed throughout, insulation is in place, and air-tightness testing is underway—signed off with Southern Water for a new 32mm supply.
Bedrooms & En-Suites
Every room in the building includes an en-suite, with sizes starting at 10.5 sqm and increasing as you move up the building. Even the smallest rooms are well-appointed. Built-in storage has been carefully considered with walk-in wardrobes, shelving, and rails.
Utility & Mechanical Systems
Utility cupboards are dotted throughout the property, housing MVHR systems and future air source heat pumps for high-efficiency heating and ventilation. We’re also adding a master key system for streamlined access across the development.
Kitchens, Co-Working & Shared Space
There will be three communal kitchens in total. The first is already framed out and it’s big—with a wraparound layout, central island, and separate dining area. There’s also a laundry run with two washers and two dryers to make daily living easy.
We're also planning informal co-working space near the kitchen—a high desk at the window to enjoy the view while working, and another small work zone that won’t feel cramped. We’re refining the interior layout as we go to make sure it’s functional without being over-designed.
Outside Spaces: Light, Air & Storage
Out the back, we’ve painted the light well white to bounce light deeper into the property—and it’s already making a difference. The outdoor area will become a south-facing seating area with a flexible design based on the final budget. It might not be fully finished before letting, but we’ve got a great vision ready to go.
A double-tier bike store is being installed to house up to 16 bikes—a requirement for any HMO of this size—with access from the side alley for ease.
Upstairs: Premium Rooms & Finishing Touches
As you head upstairs, the rooms get larger, with some really unique layouts and architectural features. We're using premium aqua panels instead of tiles in the en-suites to keep things sleek and easy to fit.
There's even a double room with a kitchenette, bath and shower—our top-tier option.
We’re also retrofitting IKEA wardrobes and fixing them in place. It keeps costs down while achieving a built-in look that feels high spec.
Next Steps
✅ Kitchens are being ordered this week
✅ En-suites are being finalised
✅ Final plastering and decorating continues
✅ Lettings planned for May/June
We're nearly there—and as with all big projects, a final push of funds will get us over the line. If you’re following along and interested in supporting or investing, we’d love to chat.
Stay tuned for more as 152–154 London Road comes to life.
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