This exciting project in the historic cathedral city of Winchester provides 33 two- and three-bedroom apartments with communal spaces and extensive landscaped gardens. Planning consent was gained first time, with strong officer support leading to a delegated approval. The project is commissioned by Pegasus, a leading provider of quality retirement homes, who strives to create homes that enhance the lives and wellbeing of their residents. Construction is scheduled to be completed in 2021, with WLA appointed to deliver all project work stages from inception to completion.

The site's character is defined by the mature trees that extend down the west side of the site and create a pleasant and peaceful environment. The building has been arranged in a rectilinear form, which offers the optimal relationship with its surroundings and maximises the opportunities to enjoy its unique, sylvan setting and its attractive views. Two distinct building elements are connected by a double height west-facing glazed link. The residents lounge is located within this link, enjoying the west facing views of the trees to the fullest. The provision of underground parking, which are accessed by car lifts, creates increased opportunity for garden space at grade. The high quality communal landscaped gardens enhance the setting of the building and create opportunities for residents to dwell in sun or shade.

While the building form and material palette is relatively traditional, under a shallow pitched slate roof, the design language is contemporary in style. A combination of square cut flint and red brick walls, cleanly detailed brickwork and generous, slender framed fenestration are intended to sit comfortably within the sylvan setting. Simple, fully glazed balconies to first and second floor apartments maintain the sense of openness.

CGI's by others, courtesy of Pegasus.