1 Gunwharf Quays Portsmouth

No.1 Gunwharf Quays - The 'Funnel' 2009 Scott Brownrigg photos © Nick Weall Height : 29 storeys, almost 100m tallest residential skyscraper on the South Coast of England The Funnel + Spinnaker Tower: photos © Nick Weall Developer : Berkeley Group / Berkeley Homes The design of No.1 Gunwharf Quays is modelled by the architects on a large funnel and will represent steam, while the nearby Spinnaker is based on a sail. Berkeley Homes' innovative mixed use development of luxury apartments and retail facilities at Gunwharf Quays, has resulted in one of Portsmouth's most desired addresses. Designated a conservation area by Portsmouth City Council, this is an exciting residential development, allowing one privacy yet convenience of the thriving commercial centre. In 1995 Portsmouth City Council prepared a development brief to provide detailed guidance, supplementary to the Local Plan, for the redevelopment of Gunwharf Quays. This gave clear indication of what was expected in their bid to the MOD and in the subsequent planning application. The MOD sold the site to the Berkeley Group in 1996 and since then Berkeley Homes has worked closely with Portsmouth City Council to redevelop this "brownfield" site. The Gunwharf renaissance has resulted in a stimulating new environment on a site closed to the public for over 300 years, providing an important facility for both residents and visitors alike. In the first 9 months after its Easter 2001 opening, Gunwharf Quays attracted over 3 million visitors. photos © Nick Weall Completed Developments The purpose built apartments at Neptune Court & Lysander Court were completed in 1999 to the usual high quality and individual specification which carries the balance of the ten year warranty. These were closely followed by Jupiter Court and Minerva Crescent townhouses and apartments. The Old Infirmary is probably the oldest building now standing at Gunwarf Quays. As the name suggests, it was a hospital for Royal Marines returning wounded from duty on board HM Ships. If you look closely there are names carved in the brickwork giving names and dates back to 1835. The building was refurbished and residents moved into Old Infirmary House in late 2000. The next development at Gunwharf Quays was the unique Lighthouse comprising an exclusive range of only four 2 bedroom apartments and just one 2 bedroom penthouse. Located in a prominent and enviable position, it is just minutes from Gunwharf's fashionable bars, designer outlets and restaurants. 2002 saw the final phase of Perseus Terrace Townhouses completed and the release of the much anticipated developments of Blake and Arethusa house. A now popular harbour side development, they occupy a spectacular waterfront position. The Arethusa development in particular enjoying views of the Camber Dock, Portsmouth Harbour, The Solent and Isle of Wight from balconies to the north or south elevations. Both development sold out immediately following completion. The next dramatic addition to Gunwharf Quays was the outstanding Canalside. Comprising 3 separate entities, Anson Court, Brecon House and Centurian Court, each phase offered various styles of accommodation but all maintained a striking central position within Gunwharf Quays. The Spinnaker, Gunwharf Quays 2005 Greentree All Church Evans Ltd photo © Nick Weall Spinnaker Tower