The Silks, Exning Road
This former gas works site is in a prominent location in Newmarket, with great potential to improve the quality of the built environment in this particular part of the town.
Anchor commissioned us to design an extra care development comprising 69 one and two-bedroom apartments for the western side of the site. The eastern side was being developed by Aldi and it was agreed that the two developments should be designed in collaboration to produce a cohesive and well considered scheme that would enhance the local area.
The client had a preference for a more traditional appearance to cater for an older generation. However, we have integrated some more contemporary design elements into the balcony detailing with a mixture of aluminium and timber features to pick up on detailing from the proposed Aldi store. All flats are provided with a balcony or terrace.
The scheme will be predominantly constructed from Cambridgeshire Gault brick to reflect the history and traditional materials of the surrounding site.
The main entrance is defined with the use of brickwork detailing. It is sheltered – and further highlighted - by a glazed canopy. To the left of the entrance are bi-folding doors to the café area and terrace, which will receive generous daylight from the morning and evening sun - creating a pleasant amenity space and promoting the general wellbeing of residents.