Crest Nicholson : Blending with the natural landscape

Christophe Egret from Studio Egret West - a multidisciplinary design studio specialising in architecture, urban design and landscape architecture - discusses the ambitions behind the Royal View and Sovereign Point buildings at Crest Nicholson's Bath Riverside development.

Inspired by some of the city's most famous landmarks, both buildings herald an exciting chapter, not only in the Bath Riverside story, but that of the city.

Christophe said: 'Royal View and Sovereign Point have been created as pavilions inspired by and nestling within the landscape rather than sitting above it. They act as markers or 'gatehouses' to the development at the crossing point over the River Avon.

'Their relationships to the water, to the new park, and their situation within the wider region of Bath, with views to and from, have been of crucial importance.

'Deliberately distinct from the more rectilinear and formal elements of the surrounding buildings, a series of curves soften Royal View and Sovereign Point's form and reduces their visual impact.

'As the buildings increase in height, the curved forms step backwards, creating terrace spaces from which residents can view the surrounding landscape. The fluid form also adds to the distinctiveness of the architecture while shadows cast a balance of light and dark across the façades.'

Royal View Success

And it seems Christophe's vision for these landmark buildings on the banks of the River Avon have had the desired effect with all properties in Royal View sold. The sales team is now expecting heightened interest in the remaining properties in Sovereign Point and the waterside lifestyle that's already appealed to so many.

Part of the appeal, according to Christophe, is not only the waterside setting but the link with Bath's history and in particular its Roman and Georgian past.

He added: 'Bath is the most complete and best preserved Georgian city in Britain and is listed as an UNESCO world heritage site. Both Royal View and Sovereign Point have been designed with consideration for this historical context.

'A good example of this can be seen with the dash of orange tiles on the balconies' recesses which is a reference to the rusty stains of ferruginous water found in the Roman baths.

'The landscape has also been used as an architectural material, with vertical green walls growing up the façade of the buildings, leading to a garden plant space on the roof which forms a 'green crown'. The distinction between landscape and building is therefore blurred so that the buildings appear rooted in their riverside park setting.

'An abundance of green space also makes this a beautiful place to live and provides opportunities for biodiversity and local wildlife. The green walls create a link to the riverside walkways, making fantastic spaces for people to socialise outdoors, with the reflections in the water fostering the tranquil atmosphere.

'The central atrium is a special feature, acting as the communal heart of the building. It connects residents with the outside elements, providing a direct link with the sky above whilst drawing in natural light. At ground level, a mix of uses - including a restaurant - create a hub of activity, supporting the scheme's sense of community.

'I like to think that through Royal View and Sovereign Point we've not only carved out a place in Bath's very distinctive history, but also created beautiful places to live that better reflects the need of what is a progressive and forward-thinking city.'

For further information please call 01225 463 517 or visit www.crestnicholson.com/bathriverside

The marketing suite on Victoria Bridge Road is open daily from 10 am to 5pm.