Axiom Housing Association initially approached PDG Architects in August 2004 to take part in a design competition for a new seventeen bed ‘Foyer’ scheme at North Street, Wisbech. A ‘Foyer’ aims to provide a bridge to independence for young people, giving them a chance to realise their full potential by escaping from the ‘no home, no job, no home’ cycle. The site is located at the heart of Wisbech, Cambridgeshire on the River Nene waterfront adjacent to Freedom Bridge. This prominent position is a natural focal point that can be viewed from a number of directions. It was the first site to be developed in line with supplementary planning guidance as part of an overall masterplan for the regeneration of the port area. Therefore the ‘Foyer’ is seen as a flagship project, which aims to set a high design standard with the use of good detailing and materials, producing a benchmark for the future development of Nene Waterfront. In terms of appearance the building has two distinct sides, which respond to very different briefs. A formal approach to the North Street elevation was required to respect the traditional Georgian character, extending out from Market Place along North Street. A contemporary approach was taken for the river elevation, drawing upon guidance from the Nene Waterfront masterplan. The prominent river frontage called for a high quality, distinctive elevation. The scheme is principally three storey, accommodating seventeen en-suite bedrooms with shared kitchen, laundry and living facilities along with staff administration areas, interview room, training rooms and a café which can be used for training purposes as well as offering the public a new space with river views. A Good rating was achieved under a bespoke BREEAM Assessment produced by the Building Research Establishment, as well as approval to Secured by Design standards