beachside

Beachside is an urban design–led residential development located at the threshold between the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic landform of the Port Hills. Conceived as a contemporary perimeter block, the project reinterprets traditional urban structure within a coastal setting — creating a coherent, legible form that defines space, protects amenity, and contributes positively to Sumner’s evolving urban fabric.

The masterplan is composed of six elegant buildings carefully arranged to form a defined urban edge while enclosing a sheltered communal landscape at its heart. This perimeter structure allows the development to achieve meaningful density without compromising liveability. It provides protection from coastal winds, frames views, and creates a transition between the public realm of the esplanade and the more intimate shared spaces within.

Each building has been designed as part of a unified architectural and urban composition. Together they form a collective whole — responding to the shifting conditions of beach, ocean, and hillside — while maintaining their own identity through subtle variation in form, material, and orientation. The architecture is deliberately restrained, allowing light, landscape, and outlook to shape the experience of living.

The project is grounded in a belief that density, when carefully designed, can enhance both individual and collective amenity. The perimeter block model provides passive surveillance, clear definition between public and private space, and a strong sense of address — qualities often lost in contemporary apartment development.

Beachside contributes to the gradual intensification of Sumner in a manner that respects its character while supporting its future. It demonstrates how coastal density can be delivered with elegance, coherence, and long-term urban integrity.

Common Ground is the lead designer of this project.

‍

Project is now under construction.

‍