When 11 Eccleston Street in St Helens was built in the mid-1960's, it was originally intended to become a car showroom for Sutton's (car company).
Beaman's Builders Merchants were given the contract to construct the building, however, Sutton's decided not to proceed with the purchase of the building and subsequently pulled out of the agreement.
Beaman's decided to repurpose and retain the building, transforming it into a comprehensive builders' merchants, while also using the space as a bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom showroom. Over time, Beaman's streamlined its operations, narrowing its focus to become a dedicated plumbers' merchants and bathroom showroom.
The takeover of Don Coslett Limited in 1994/95 seen Coslett continue the day-to-day business operations while keeping the Beaman's name due to it's popular reputation, but also because of other Beaman locations in Preston, Warrington and Runcorn.
Analysing the external character of the building, it was originally built with low windows as it was designed for a car showroom. This can be seen in the historic aerial photo from the late 60's. The low windows were eventually bricked up by the Coslett owners in 1994/95, and it is still noticeable in the brickwork to this day at Amicus House. For almost 50 years Beaman's played a pivotal role in the community of St Helens, but in 2017, DBR Investment Group Ltd went on to acquire the building in a joint venture from Don Coslett Limited, which seen Beaman's relocate to Huyton in Liverpol. DBR's renovation planning was submitted in October 2017, and the nod was given for works to go ahead on January 3, 2018. However, the project did not commence until January 2019.
DBR were able to officially complete the Amicus House renovation in January 2020. The former plumbers' merchants now stands as Amicus House. 9 self-contained apartments with 36 en-suites and dedicated parking. The residences, now fully tenanted, boast a modern aesthetic with high-end specifications.
The living areas feature stylish furniture, complemented by modern finishes that showcase white skirting boards, LVT flooring, grey accent walls, and more.
The bedrooms are dressed with modern wall décor, rugs, drawers, and tables, creating a warm and colourful atmosphere from floor to ceiling.
Meanwhile, the stainless-steel cooker and overhead, along with the dark worktop, complement the grey cabinets, cupboards, and splashbacks.
With just a 10-minute walk from the St Helens town centre, the building has now become a prime residential location for working professionals. With thriving nightlife, local entertainment, cafes, theatres, and shops all in close proximity, the apartments provide an affordable and convenient modern living space. Thanks to the transformation undertaken by DBR, the building has found a new purpose and, as always, breathes new life into the local community. More Photos
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