Shoreline, Folkestone – ADC

Folkestone was once an important fishing and ferry port and spa resort. The seafront was characterised by boats and railways, amusement piers, bathing establishments, roller coasters, mini golf and nightclubs until the ferry port and harbour station closed, and the area fell out of use over the last 25 years. Folkestone Harbour and Seafront Development Company is leading a comprehensive redevelopment of Folkestone’s harbour area and to create a vibrant new seafront for the town.

Located prominently on the Folkestone beachfront is Shoreline, a contemporary take on the traditional Edwardian curved terrace and the first phase of the Folkestone Seafront & Harbour masterplan, designed by ACME. Constructed by Jenner and delivered by Folkestone Harbour & Seafront Development Company, Shoreline is the first step in creating a vibrant new community along the historic seafront.

Within the context of ACME’s 2016 Folkestone Harbour and Seafront masterplan, Shoreline is the first residential building to be completed. Located at the foot of the Grade II* listed Leas Lift, one of the oldest water lifts in the UK and on the edge of Lower Leas Coastal Park, Shoreline is surrounded by heritage and nature. It is a collection of 84 houses and apartments with uninterrupted beach views across the sea, stretching as far as the French coastline on a clear day.

Inspired by Kent’s rich architectural heritage, Shoreline’s layout and architectural language pay homage to Regency Buildings at the top of the Leas. Its form is a large sweeping crescent offering stunning sea views to as many homes as possible. The building contains 20 beach houses, 4 duplexes and two apartment blocks with 30 apartments each. The crescent sits directly on a raised part of the beach, and the semi-circular massing frames a sheltered communal garden away from the prevailing south-easterly winds.

Shoreline’s flowing curved form echoes the shape of the waves, pebbles and coast. The facade’s white glazed bricks reflecting the changing colours of the sea and sky according to the weather and the time of day. The unique, contemporary design is created with materials and robust details required for the seafront exposure. The white glazed bricks, sourced from Spain, refer back to the white stucco Regency houses at the top of the Leas. The crafted facade acts as a “hard shell,” with all external elements being of the highest specification possible to endure in a marine environment.