marmion road

The Marmion Road project involved the sensitive redevelopment of a former YMCA site in Hove - a location long associated with community life and social value.

From the outset, the scheme attracted strong public interest, including the involvement of local stakeholders and the then-MP (now Cabinet Minister) Rt Hon Peter Kyle, who led open discussions at several community meetings. LRAR’s design process placed transparency and dialogue at its core, ensuring the project evolved with the community rather than in isolation from it.

Architecturally, the development was conceived as a contextually scaled, sustainable residential scheme, reinterpreting the rhythm and character of Hove’s surrounding streets through a refined, contemporary language.

The sustainable design employed timber frame construction, chosen for its low embodied carbon and rapid build efficiency. High levels of passive performance were achieved through airtight detailing, enhanced insulation, and optimised window-to-wall ratios - reducing operational energy demand.

Meanwhile, green roofs with integrated photovoltaic arrays provided both active energy generation and biodiversity gains, transforming previously underutilised roofscapes into living, productive surfaces.

Together, these measures embody LRAR’s commitment to responsible architecture - where design, sustainability, and social purpose align. The Marmion Road project not only revitalises a site of local importance but also demonstrates how thoughtful urban redevelopment can deliver measurable environmental benefit and enduring community value.