Over 15% of the buyers at Gunwharf Quays have had connections in the Middle East and many of the properties in the building have been let to expats returning from the region Dubai, September 19th, 2010: Leading UK developer Berkeley Homes has launched the highest and most luxurious penthouse on the UK’s south coast at its prestigious Gunwharf Quays development in Portsmouth for the discerning investors from the Middle East. Over 15% of the buyers at Gunwharf Quays have had connections in the Middle East and many of the properties in the building have been let to expats returning from the region. The magnificent £5 million (AED 28 million) duplex penthouse is set on top of the 29 storey No.1 Gunwharf Quays tower, which is the tallest residential building on the UK’s south coast and is the focal point of Berkeley Homes’ £200 million (AED 1.1 billion) landmark regeneration of the area. The three-bedroom penthouse will offer approximately 4,600 sq. ft. of luxury living space and no less than four private terraces, all providing spectacular views of the Solent, the UK’s millionaire yachting playground. Robin Rixon, Director of Sales and Marketing for Berkeley Homes at Gunwharf Quays, comments “No.1 Gunwharf Quays has already attracted residents from across the Middle East including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The prestigious nature of the building combined with the iconic architecture and dramatic skyline views seem to have attracted buyers from the region and we would not be surprised to see the penthouse being sold to a Middle Eastern buyer looking for a UK coastal home.” It is anticipated that the size and scale of the penthouse will appeal to both Middle Eastern buyers and returning expats who are currently based in the region. Interiors designed by internationally renowned Honky Design, which usually undertakes private commissions for some of central London’s most expensive homes in Knightsbridge, Belgravia and Mayfair, the penthouse sets a new benchmark in design and luxury for coastal living. No.1 Gunwharf Quays is the dramatic final phase of Berkeley Homes’ Gunwharf Quays development. Rising to nearly 100 metres and 29 storeys, affording spectacular panoramic views over Portsmouth, the harbour and the ocean, No.1 Gunwharf Quays will be the tallest residential skyscraper on the South Coast of England. In addition to the penthouse, the landmark tower will accommodate 139 one, two and three bedroom apartments. The large open plan day space incorporates a £100,000 (AED 560,000) bespoke, hand crafted Boffi kitchen which is one of the design centrepieces of the apartment and incorporates a combination of stylish white lacquered units with graphite oak cupboards to create a sleek but warm feel. The air conditioned penthouse is accessed via a secure high speed lift, operated by a special key, which opens directly into the magnificent entrance hall. The £200 million Gunwharf Quays regeneration has transformed the former Royal Navy Ordnance yard into a world-class waterfront leisure destination which attracts over 8 millions visitors each year. The bustling 33-acre scheme combines luxury waterside homes with one of the most successful shopping centres on the south coast featuring 20 cosmopolitan bars & restaurants, a 14-screen Warner Village Cinema, Bowlplex, casino, hotel and Jongleurs comedy club. The wide variety of retailers includes well-known names such as Paul Smith, Karen Millen, Polo Ralph Lauren, Austin Reed, Marks & Spencer, LK Bennett and Molton Brown. The ground floor of No. 1 Gunwharf Quays is now home to Raymond Blanc’s Brasserie Blanc offering modern and authentic French cuisine. The striking entrance hall provides a real sense of arrival. The white Greek marble floor is inset with smoked grey oak timbers, whilst the walls are clad with shagreen style wallpaper mimicking the silver skin of a stingray. The kitchen includes a top of the range Gaggenau oven, touch control electric hob, remote control glass extractor hood, double width fridge with electric shelving for ease of access, deep freeze, an integrated coffee machine, plate warmer and microwave. The day space includes an area for casual dining as well as comfortable seating ideal for everyday living or relaxed entertaining. The cinema is positioned at the rear of the building which never has strong direct sunlight making it ideal for watching films; however, electronically controlled blackout curtains have been installed to enhance the cinematic experience. The cinema is equipped with the latest 65 inch plasma television and integrated sound system, which along with the curtains, can be controlled from a remote central control panel. Among other features the evening space has been designed as a formal reception room, ideal for quiet relaxation as well as entertaining and impressing guests. The room incorporates greys and neutral colours to provide a stylish, relaxed feeling which naturally draws attention to the striking 180 degree views of the surrounding area. The master bedroom suite is an impressive collection of rooms and a terrace providing a private sanctuary away from the rest of the penthouse. The penthouse at No.1 Gunwharf Quays is being marketed with an asking price of £5 million with all furnishings available by separate negotiation. To register interest in the penthouse please contact Berkeley Homes on Tel: +44 (0) 2392 851 800 or visit www.gunwharfquays.co.uk.
