Planning approval has been granted for a unique collection of ten contemporary coastal homes at Steamer Point in Christchurch. The visionary scheme from local housebuilder Pennyfarthing Homes will turn a collection of derelict buildings with no architectural merit into some of the most sought-after properties in the area.

The homes will be built on a 1.3-hectare site in a prominent clifftop location at the western edge of the Steamer Point Nature Reserve with sea views. With many mature trees on the site protected by Tree Preservation Orders, the landscape-led design celebrates the verdant setting.  The scheme, designed by David James Architects, has positioned each home to make the most of the ocean vistas and existing greenery, while also boosting biodiversity with new planting. Measures have been taken to protect existing ecological features across the site, including minimising light spillage into an established bat corridor.

The position and layout of each property has also been carefully considered in light of maximising the expansive sea views afforded by the site’s elevated position. The properties will include four frontline homes that use an ‘upside-down house’ concept, with the living accommodation on the upper floors, to maximise the stunning views. An external staircase will connect the living spaces to the gardens, while the bedrooms occupy the ground floor. A further six homes will be set back from the four frontline properties with more traditional layouts, oriented towards the view in between them.

Blending nature with contemporary design is at the heart of Pennyfarthing’s approach for the Steamer Point homes, introducing an earthy colour palette with light stone cladding and brick paying homage to the cliffs south of the site. Overhanging roofs, horizontal elements and glazing are thoughtfully used to break up the buildings’ mass while delivering a carefully considered contemporary aesthetic. The connection with surrounding nature is further enhanced through the addition of bronze aluminium elements and light timber cladding.

Ben Arnold, Land and Planning Director at Pennyfarthing Homes, comments: “We are delighted to have finally been given the go-ahead for this landmark development, redeveloping a derelict brownfield site to create an exclusive development of ten high-quality contemporary homes in a unique location.  This makes Steamer Point one of the best development sites along the entire South Coast bringing even greater excitement to our planning success.  The granting of planning permission is testament to the incredibly high-quality designs of the homes and to the outstanding care that has been shown for the local natural environment.” Construction of the Steamer Point homes is due to begin in autumn 2025 with completions expected in early 2027. For further details on this boutique development please email sales@pennyfarthinghomes.co.uk, call 01425 613 958 or visit https://www.pennyfarthinghomes.co.uk/