British Coastal Architecture Inspires Proposed McCarthy Stone Development In Poole
Rich Architecture for Poole Development
Glenn Howells Architects were given the brief to create a design that would enhance our site in Poole and make the most of its excellent location, which is close to the town’s centre of Poole and it’s harbour. Many of the proposed apartments will enjoy views out to sea and the National Trust’s Brownsea Island.
Basim Shamsuddin, a designer at the practice gives us the inside track on where the inspiration for the proposed design came from. To create a beautiful building that reflects Poole’s rich heritage, we researched and drew inspiration from a number of local and regional buildings from the interwar period. A number of local well known buildings within Poole were identified as a starting point to help inform our approach to the scheme’s design.
In particular Landfall, by Oliver Hill, and The Conning Towers by AJ Seal & Partners embody an optimistic and confident vision of Poole. Both buildings were completed between 1935 and 1938, and reflect the optimism of the interwar years. The buildings belong firmly to the modernist movement, but also reflect Poole’s coastal location. The nautical detailing to balconies and railings, and prevalence of smooth white treatment allude to Poole’s close relationship with the shipping industry. The modernist tradition has survived, and can be seen in the products of local company Sunseeker, who design and manufacture modern, sleek word class luxury motor yachts.
Further examples of British, coastal region buildings which were built during the interwar years illustrate how this architectural style was applied at a larger scale. The Midland Hotel in Morcambe (1933, by Oliver Hill), and the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill-on-Sea (1933, Eric Mendelsohn) have these recognisable elements. Boscombe Pier, which is just down the road from the site in Bournemouth (1950, John Burton) shows how this tradition carried on after the war and has continued through to the current day with a number of high-end contemporary private homes.
These examples and the research that was undertaken led to three key architectural characteristics being defined as:
- horizontal emphasis
- a white facade
- smooth curved forms
Our intention with the design of the building was to refer to these traits and reference Poole’s heritage. The long sweeping curve of our lower building is emphasised by deep, full width balconies which give residents good views towards Poole Park and the harbour. For more pictures of the design please visit the development's website page and browse the gallery. Also, we have proposed the use of low-level planters which divide adjacent balconies while still providing opportunities for neighbours to socialise. The taller building features a tighter curve, which alludes to standing at the prow of a ship, and will provide residents with stunning views over Poole Harbour and towards the town. A shared terrace with landscaped gardens will provide a tranquil setting for the building.
All of these features should help create a truly stunning development.
Plans for the proposed development in Poole are still at the planning stage. A decision is expected this spring.
