Property buyers flock to the Dorset coast in search of luxury living and fine views aplenty.

Horizons is a new multi-million pound, luxury development commanding a beautiful position overlooking Poole Park and Poole Bay, with breath-taking views from its selection of luxury penthouse and harbour side apartments.

Demand for such a unique scheme in the area has not gone unnoticed - buyers have been keen to purchase their own slice of this south coast retreat.

The premier development has been designed exclusively for people aged 70 and over who want to live independently, but who can benefit from personal care packages which can be tailored to their individual needs, as well as round-the-clock support, if required. A waitress service restaurant is included, there is a homeowner’s lounge, plus viewing platforms so everyone can take in the fantastic scenery.

McCarthy and Stone’s architects were given the brief to create a design that would make the most of the development’s exceptional location.

The apartments are incredibly stylish with walk-out balconies, sleek fully-fitted kitchens with integrated appliances, and spacious living areas, many which face the water.

Poole based Architect, Matthew Richardson, gives the inside track on where his inspiration came from for the design of this new high-end retirement development in desirable Poole, near Sandbanks.

WHERE DO YOU START WHEN YOU'RE GIVEN A DESIGN BRIEF?

"We wanted to create a beautiful building that reflects Poole’s rich heritage, so we researched and drew inspiration from the best local and regional buildings from the interwar period. The white rendered finish and the  buildings clean elegant lines reflect some of the highest quality buildings found along the south coast, and complement its neighbouring buildings. Glass balconies and full height windows maximise space and light inside the apartments, whilst ensuring all residents benefit from the spectacular views.

"Designing a building near the sea creates more opportunities than challenges. It allows you to create homes that connect with their beautiful surroundings."

WHAT MATERIALS DO YOU USE?

"Wherever possible, materials were locally sourced. All the timber came from local suppliers. The building is constructed from a simple palette of materials, white render and stone. These are designed to show off the buildings form whilst not being too ‘showy’. We are also quite proud of the glass balustrades around the balconies - the thin handrail is designed so that it hardly interrupts the view at all.

"It was really important that the materials would look as good as they do now, in 10 years time. We selected high quality render and stone work to help ensure this. "

HOW HAVE YOU MAXIMISED THE VIEWS? 

"Knowing the area well really helped, and I knew early on that we could create apartments with views over the bay and even Corfe Castle. However, to make sure, we used a drone and took panoramic photographs from the level of each floor. I also plotted the building on a large scale map to work out precisely what would be seen out of the windows."

WHAT KEY ELEMENTS DID YOU PUT INTO THE DESIGN?

"It was important to get the scale right. A lot of computer modelling was carried out to ensure the building would not be unduly dominant, but would still be a memorable landmark. The carefully designed curves create an elevation that changes as you move round the building.

"Wrap around balconies provide most apartments with a sea view, and usable outdoor space. The balconies allow us to include large windows to ensure all views are maximised.

"The garden and its fantastic tree are a key focal point to the design - the Restaurant and Club Lounge open up onto the garden terrace.

"All the lifts open up straight onto a view across the garden toward the sea - rather than a blank wall with a sign."

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE DEVELOPMENT IN THREE WORDS?

Beautiful, modern, appropriate.

WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR INSPIRATION FROM?

"I  spent a lot of time researching and photographing local buildings to make sure that the design was contextual. I was particularly interested by interwar architecture and buildings designed by A.J Seal - who’s work includes the Bournemouth Echo building on Richmond Hill and Conning Towers in Canford Cliffs."

"The best ideas come from talking to people, local residents, experts in assisted living design and even friends and family who live in Poole."

ANY ADVICE FOR FUTURE ARCHITECTS?

"Look, listen and learn. Remember that a building is not for you but for the good of the local community and its future residents."

Horizons

Prices: £269,000 - £459,000. There are currently four apartments remaining, from £269,000

McCarthy and Stone: 0800 310 0383

www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk