Following the realisation of City Village, our first built development in Coventry, we've again supported our client, Downing, in creating another venture in the city centre.
Identified by Coventry City Council as a priority development opportunity, the site is well connected to the University & Enterprise Area. The site also has good pedestrian linkages to cultural, retail and leisure activities.
Belgrade Plaza Phase 2 comprises a 14 storey build-to-rent tower with 100 one- and two-bedroom apartments and a 13 storey L-shaped 385-bedroom student residential building. Both elements are connected by a single-storey podium which houses communal facilities, including 2 large common rooms, meeting rooms, two gyms and laundry facilities. The scheme also includes significant areas of public and private open spaces along with other improvements to the surrounding pedestrian routes.
The project locates the 14-storey element along the eastern site boundary to minimise overlooking and overshadowing whilst also providing a local landmark in that area of the city. The height along the eastern edge is integrated into the setting by stepping down to meet the existing contextual heights to the west side of the site.
The scheme utilises brick in a variety of treatments and colours which link across the different elements helping to both distinguish and provide visual harmony. The brick also anchors the scheme to its surroundings, creating a strong solid feel. The different brick colours and patterns are utilised to differentiate the functions within the scheme. The windows also reinforce the functional differences with their arrangement and placement on the building.
The project has been constructed to apply inclusive design principles to the internal and external spaces, creating a safe and secure environment which responds to the needs of all users.