Insight | 7 min read
Why Paintworks?
At Sovereign we believe that everyone should live in a home and a place where they feel safe, part of their community and where they can thrive.
Our Homes and Place standard marks Sovereign’s commitment to building and maintaining good quality homes and better places to live, which is why we are excited to see the strong sense of community that has already formed at the Paintworks development in Bristol…
From Phoenix Wharf to Paintworks
Built by Bristol Paintmakers, Colthurst & Harding in 1850, Phoenix Wharf was once a paint and varnish factory which existed for 100 years. Eventually all paint manufacture ceased, and the site become known as a Central Trading Estate.
Over time, the site became 'vertical rubble' and in 2004, when the Local Authority consents were granted, the Paintworks development in Bristol took its place. Primarily focused on building a flourishing new community and regenerating a mixed-use district, the future here was based on creating a vibrant area out of a previously derelict industrial complex.
Homes and Place
As part of our Homes and Place standard, our aim is to encourage long-term health and wellbeing through creating well-integrated, sustainable, and strong communities.
We know our customers have different needs, so we want places that are diverse and multi-generational. Our places must be light and open to green spaces, encouraging healthy living.
At Paintworks, what was once a vision to build an interactive community and regeneration of the surrounding area, has now become a reality. All homes have been thoughtfully designed to face car-free streets which encourages residents to enjoy play and socialising safely in their neighbourhood, allowing people of all ages to feel secure and flourish within their homes and the wider community.
Living in the creative quarter
When we regenerate existing places, we want to involve local people in the design and development. Bristol artist Sophie Long recently showcased her creative talent with her Bee artwork, complimenting the area and highlighting how the local creative arts community plays an important role on site.
From public art installations, circus and opera performances, to filming and photography locations, there’s always an event to attend at Paintworks – providing a constant buzz and opportunity for homeowners on site to socialise, and employees to network.
Those with a love for art can explore The Royal Photographic Society and Martin Parr Foundation – offering exciting events including exhibitions, workshops and film screenings.
From new build homes to converted industrial buildings at this development, each property hosts pops of colour and a unique urban feel, surrounded by work, hospitality, and event spaces to create a thriving atmosphere.
Whether you’re an employee on your lunch break, or catching up with a friend after work, Paintworks offers on-site restaurants on your doorstep such as award-winning independent venue Bocabar and quirky Airstream Diners with a vision to create a regular street food hub.
Life in Bristol
We helped over 112 people become homeowners across Bristol in 2021, and as we continue to build a sustainable future for our customers, there will be many more opportunities to purchase a shared ownership home in Bristol through Sovereign.