Characterful & site-specific housing at scale: Waterbeach gets the green light
Our design for a new lakeside residential neighbourhood at Waterbeach, Cambridgeshire, has secured planning approval , marking an exciting milestone for the project and the wider Waterbeach community.
Designed by AFK Studios for Greystar, in partnership with master developer Urban&Civic, the 387-home Build to Rent development occupies a prominent position overlooking Waterbeach Lake, within Urban&Civic's wider 6,500-home masterplan just north of Cambridge.
The proposals bring together four mid-rise residential buildings in a generous landscape setting, with architecture that draws on both the waterfront and the site's former airfield heritage. Robust brickwork, carefully considered proportions and subtle detailing inspired by the linear geometry of the former runways give the buildings a distinctive architectural character, while balconies and generous openings create connections to the landscape and lake beyond.
The arrangement of buildings creates a series of interconnected courtyards, gardens and pedestrian routes opening towards the waterfront. Developed in close collaboration with landscape architects at HTA and the wider design team, the proposals include a new social plaza and lakeside boardwalk, creating welcoming spaces for residents and the wider community.
Sustainability is integrated throughout, with an all-electric energy strategy, roof-mounted solar panels and secure cycle spaces. New planting along the lakefront will also enhance biodiversity and strengthen ecological connections.
Waterbeach is the first development under Greystar's UK garden-style rental housing strategy, bringing an established international housing model to the UK and responding to growing demand for high-quality rental homes in high-growth locations.
We're delighted to have reached this important milestone alongside Greystar, Urban&Civic and the wider consultant team, and look forward to seeing the neighbourhood take shape.
Waterbeach has been a fantastic opportunity to create high-quality homes that respond to the unique character of the site and its lakeside setting. We've focused on achieving architectural richness through thoughtful design and carefully considered detailing, balancing a distinctive identity with the demands of delivering homes at scale. Working closely with the wider design team, we've placed equal importance on the spaces between the buildings and how they contribute to a welcoming, connected neighbourhood. We're incredibly proud to see the project reach this milestone.Earle Arney, Founder & CEO
The project team consists of Greystar, Urban&Civic, AFK Studios, HTA Landscape, David Lock Associates, Walsh, Neuron, Buro Happold, KMC Transport, Hornbeck and Sweco.
For press enquiries, please reach out to press@afkstudios.com
