Brighton Seafront

Space Type
A Seaside Town Waterfront
Location
Seafront, from the Brighton Pier
to the Hove boundary
Award
Civic Trust 2001


Until 2001 this stretch of seafront was

 run down. Extensive environmental improvements have resulted in a waterfront which now plays an important part in the life of Brighton.
The lower promenade has widened, new shops, cafés and artists’ workshops have transformed the old ‘arches’, and artworks have been introduced. The design theme is a ‘string of pearls’ along the seafront taking on board the historic theme, focusing on the fish market and fishing museum, leading on to the artists’ area, nightclubs and bars, while Hove has more of a family bias.
 A strong curvilinear form is expressed in the path and boardwalk, linking the ‘pearls’. A series of features

and artworks such as volleyball and basketball courts, performance spaces, etc. are integrated into the design.
 In the recently completed Phase 6, children’s play is the major theme. “This is an ambitious and impressive landscaping scheme that has been extremely successful. The design is bold and full of character and surprise, yet subtle in its detailing and use of materials.

 All in all, it seems totally appropriate for the city that is unique in its flamboyance and cultural richness” .
Brighton and Hove Council Conservation and Regeneration Team. Although not part of this award, we have included Phase 6 as it formed an important and integral part of the space as a whole.
 Even on a dull day the area is full of vibrancy, bustling with people. It is an effective design of a linear space with a good use of simple basic materials and unusual original detailing of some features.
The whole process has extended the town to the beach and now includes sailing, food and drink sources, sport, fishing, shopping and play, both during the day and night.