Mixed-Use Development, Riverside Apartments
This project comprises the construction of a high-density mixed-use development, carefully positioned between the existing town centre main street and the river edge. The scheme delivers active ground-floor retail units fronting the established urban street, with 50 no. apartments arranged above and to the rear, benefitting from long views overlooking the river and surrounding landscape.
The architectural strategy responds directly to its dual context. Along the main street, the building reinforces the existing urban grain through a strong street edge, vertical rhythm and a robust material palette. Retail units at ground floor provide active frontage and visual engagement at street level, contributing to the vitality and commercial life of the town centre.
As the building transitions towards the riverside, the architecture becomes more open and residential in character. Upper floors are articulated to maximise daylight, outlook and amenity for residents, with generous balconies and large window openings orientated towards the river. The massing steps and shifts to reduce visual bulk, ensuring the scale of the development is appropriate when viewed from both the public realm and the waterfront.
A restrained palette of materials—principally brick, render and metal detailing—has been employed to create a contemporary yet contextually grounded architectural language. Variation in façade treatment, recessed balconies and vertical elements provide depth and shadow, breaking down the overall mass while maintaining coherence across the scheme.
The residential component is organised around shared landscaped courtyards and pedestrian routes, creating sheltered communal spaces that promote social interaction and provide a clear separation from vehicular movement. These external spaces also enhance the residential amenity and contribute to the overall quality of the development.
This high-density scheme demonstrates a balanced approach to urban living, successfully integrating retail and residential uses while responding sensitively to both the town centre and riverside setting. The project delivers a sustainable, well-considered addition to the urban fabric, supporting town centre regeneration and high-quality apartment living.
