Two Gables
Site History and Context
23 & 25 Beach Road occupy a prominent position in West Sussex, close to the town centre and within walking distance of the seafront. The site sits on a transitional stretch of Beach Road, linking the busier commercial streets to the north with quieter residential areas toward the promenade.
Littlehampton’s character is shaped by its maritime and seaside heritage, evolving from a working port into a Victorian resort. The townscape reflects this layered history, with late 19th-century villas, early 20th-century terraces, and more recent infill developments creating a diverse yet cohesive streetscape.
Previously combined by a utilitarian 1980s rear extension and most recently used as storage, the two properties presented an opportunity for redevelopment. The brief was to create two three-bedroom homes that are separated from the host building while retaining access to the existing upper-level apartments.
Situated within a designated flood zone, the scheme required a resilient design strategy. A sacrificial ground floor accommodates access and parking, elevating the main residential floors above flood level. This approach improves durability, maximises natural light, and enhances long-term liveability.
Design Response
The scheme delivers two three-storey townhouses that reinterpret the local vernacular with a robust, refined architectural language. Twin gables reference the traditional rooflines of the area, while the sculpted brick form anchors the buildings within their coastal context.
Raising the ground floor above flood level introduces undercroft parking and entry while providing resilience against environmental risk. Internally, large-format windows bring abundant natural light into the living spaces and frame outward views, balancing openness with privacy. A warm brick palette paired with dark-toned detailing provides a contemporary interpretation of Littlehampton’s coastal architecture, producing homes that are both contextual and distinct.
