Design
The aim “to achieve a design that is appropriate for Cornwall” has been widely supported. We also set out to ‘rebalance’ the development – a lighter touch on Shorthorn, but without increasing the number of units or the commercial floorspace.
We looked at aspects of the design that could be improved:
- Design to better reflect towns and villages of Cornwall.
- Reduce the site area dominated by cars and parking.
- Differentiate Crinnis from Shorthorn.
- Provide even better sea defences.
- ‘Soften’ the appearance of the sea defences on Shorthorn.
- Achieve a more interesting overall layout with varied scale of buildings and spaces.
A careful analysis was undertaken of several Cornish towns and gardens. Interesting features:
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A ‘layering’ of buildings influenced by topography, but one built up behind the other.
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A main street one block back from the water providing shelter.
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Glimpses to the water between buildings / across gardens.
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Rooftop views from higher ground.
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Small gardens and private spaces add to the public realm.
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Walls, steps and ramps to cope with level changes.
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Small scale public spaces, opening to the water and a host of different types of plants that will thrive in local microclimate.
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Variety of materials but extensive use of colour – often pastel shades.
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Mixed uses – streets and buildings can contain a variety of activities
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The pedestrian routes have frequent changes of direction
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These features have influenced our thinking for the design which has been led by architects ORMS.
Design Principles
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1.
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The buildings to be no higher than the cliff line
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2.
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A ‘layering’ of buildings with higher buildings to the rear of the site
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3.
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The creation of a variety of interesting and winding routes through the site with glimpses of the
water between buildings/across open spaces
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4.
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A pedestrian dominated main street, set back from the promenade and active public spaces
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5.
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The set back of sea defences creating an additional 3.24 ha/ 8 acres of beach
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6.
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The use of extensive landscaping in order to create a distinctive landscape character for each bay and ensure the development integrates well into the surrounding local area
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7.
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The use of green/brown roofs to provide visual interest, create new habitats and enhance biodiversity
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