Sterling Gardens, developed by Nelson Land and designed by Nissen Richards Studio, marks a significant milestone in Newbury, Berkshire. This ambitious residential project, spread across a 1-hectare site, represents the largest building endeavor to date for Nissen Richards Studio. Located on a previously industrial site, Sterling Gardens has transformed a once-contaminated area into a vibrant community with 167 apartments, showcasing innovative design and thoughtful urban planning.
Site Transformation and Planning
Sterling Gardens is situated on a site with a rich industrial history, formerly home to the Sterling Cables manufacturing plant and the Newbury Town Gas Company. Acquired by Nelson Land in 2006, the site required extensive decontamination and the development of new infrastructure to address the challenges posed by its industrial past. The planning process was complex, with multiple applications submitted before approval was granted in 2015. A key element that secured planning permission was the incorporation of a new link road through the site, designed to alleviate local traffic congestion and enhance accessibility.
The site’s transformation is a testament to the collaboration between the developers, architects, and local authorities. The project’s first phase, now completed, includes 119 apartments across six of the eight residential blocks. The development reflects a commitment to creating a balanced and sustainable community, with homes intended for private sale now allocated to affordable housing, thanks to a grant secured from Homes England and the local authority.
Design and Architecture
Nissen Richards Studio was appointed to the project in 2018, tasked with refining the existing plans and elevating the architectural quality of the development. Despite the constraints of maintaining the original massing, the studio made significant enhancements to the building layouts and exterior design. The revised plan introduced deeper balconies, more substantial window and door reveals, and a more playful landscaping design in the central gardens.
One of the most notable changes was the reconfiguration of the parking arrangements. Instead of multiple entrances, a single, secure entry point was created, featuring a manned concierge station. This station, which also houses the building manager, adds a level of convenience and security uncommon in developments outside major cities. Additionally, the introduction of venting structures within the landscaping allows natural light and air to permeate the lower-ground parking areas, enhancing the overall user experience.
Materiality and Interior Design
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A significant focus of Nissen Richards Studio’s redesign was on materiality, ensuring the exterior treatment of the buildings was both contextual and expressive. By studying local materials, the architects developed a textured and high-quality façade that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding environment. This dedication to material quality extends into the interiors, where the apartments feature full-height windows, Amtico flooring, and custom-designed kitchens with stone worktops and Bosch appliances. Each apartment also benefits from access to a private terrace or balcony, with views overlooking the central gardens.
Future Prospects and Conclusion
As the first phase of Sterling Gardens is now complete, attention will soon turn to the second phase, which will add 48 more apartments across the remaining two blocks. The project’s success is not only in its architectural achievement but also in its contribution to the local community, providing much-needed affordable housing in a thoughtfully designed urban environment.
Sterling Gardens stands as a new landmark in Newbury, embodying a blend of historical respect and modern innovation. With secure parking, concierge services, and high-quality finishes, it offers residents a comfortable and connected lifestyle, setting a new standard for residential developments in the region.
