Reusing, Rebuilding, Revitalising
Martello Lofts, Hove
Martello Lofts, Hove
HNW Architects have secured planning permission for a two-storey rooftop extension to Martello Lofts, located on Portland Road in Hove. The project focuses on the retrofit and reuse of an existing building, transforming an unfinished structure with a two storey penthouse extension with six high-quality new apartments and duplex’s, while enhancing the architectural character of the site.
A Thoughtful Approach to Urban Density
Originally a four-storey office building, the structure was previously converted into residential use, with an additional storey constructed but left incomplete. Our design removes the unfinished structure and replaces it with two new, carefully integrated storeys. This approach allows for a densification of 190 units per hectare, ensuring an efficient use of the site while maintaining a high standard of design.
The new apartments include: 1 x three-bedroom home, 3 x two-bedroom homes, and 2 x one-bedroom homes. Each apartment exceeds minimum space standards, offering generous layouts, abundance of natural light, and private roof terraces to maximise quality of life.
The new apartments include: 1 x three-bedroom home, 3 x two-bedroom homes, and 2 x one-bedroom homes. Each apartment exceeds minimum space standards, offering generous layouts, abundance of natural light, and private roof terraces to maximise quality of life.
Contextual & Sustainable Design
Respecting the surrounding streetscape was key to our approach. The additional storeys are set back from the main façade, ensuring the extensions remain subservient to the existing building. The modern design introduces high-quality bronze-coloured cladding, replacing the outdated blue and white exterior. This cladding also incorporates decorative etched artwork to provide visual interest along the public-facing elevation.
A key element of the scheme is its focus on sustainability and biodiversity, including:
• A biodiverse green roof with native planting
• Swift boxes, bee blocks, and insect houses to support local ecology
• Secure, enclosed cycle storage for residents
A key element of the scheme is its focus on sustainability and biodiversity, including:
• A biodiverse green roof with native planting
• Swift boxes, bee blocks, and insect houses to support local ecology
• Secure, enclosed cycle storage for residents
Improving Housing Supply
Brighton & Hove faces a significant shortage of high-quality, family-suitable housing. This project makes an important contribution to the city’s housing stock, delivering well-designed homes within a sustainable, retrofit-led framework.
HNW Architects’ approach to urban intensification demonstrates that increased density can be achieved without compromising on design quality, liveability, or environmental responsibility.
HNW Architects’ approach to urban intensification demonstrates that increased density can be achieved without compromising on design quality, liveability, or environmental responsibility.