Project Description
Sheltered Accommodation
Design and construction of a three storey sheltered accommodation providing a bridge to independence for young people. Located in the heard of Wisbech on the River Nene waterfront, the scheme provides seventeen en-suite bedrooms with shared kitchen, laundry and living facilities along with staff administration areas, interview room, training rooms and a café which can be used for training purposes as well as offering the public a new space with river views.
It was the first site to be developed in line with supplementary planning guidance as part of an overall masterplan for the regeneration of the port area. Therefore the ‘Foyer’ was seen as a flagship project, which aimed to set a high design standard with the use of good detailing and materials, producing a benchmark for the future development of the Nene Waterfront.
In terms of appearance the building has two distinct sides, which respond to very different briefs. A formal approach to the North Street elevation was required to respect the traditional Georgian character, extending out from Market Place along North Street. A contemporary approach was taken for the river elevation, drawing upon guidance from the Nene Waterfront masterplan. The prominent river frontage called for a high quality, distinctive elevation.
Finalist – Regeneration Category
East of England RICS Awards 2008
Winner – Commercial Award /Non Domestic New Build
Fenland District Council Building Design Awards 2008
Winner – Best Public Community Project
LABC East Anglia Built-In Quality Awards 2007
