‘Good life’ apartments in city centre win awards

Saxton Gardens, east of the city centre in Leeds, has been held up as an exemplar of excellence by both the Housing Design Awards and the Royal Institute of British Architects awards.

But most importantly the Urban Splash development is also popular with residents.

Graphic designer Sarah Greene, 24, who bought her new apartment in March, said it has a “real sense of community”.

“Being a stone’s throw from all the shops and restaurants, and yet having this huge outdoor green space, and my own allotment, plus private parking, is quite simply the good life.”

The scheme, designed by architects Union North, houses 410 apartments. As well as 97 allotments it also boasts a wild flower meadow, orchard, barbecue areas and gym.

The two council blocks, known as Parade and Drive, were earmarked for demolition before Urban Splash stepped in.

Judges of both awards praised the regeneration scheme, which re-used much of the existing building’s structure which dates back 50 years, as well as for creating a model of sustainable living.