First look: Cardiff’s John Street Build-to-Rent development designed by Chapman Taylor
Residential landlord and Build-to-Rent (BtR) developer Grainger plc has unveiled its plans for the John Street site in Cardiff, with a vision to create approximately 400 new Build-to-Rent homes and a vibrant mixed-use community. The ambitious project, designed by Chapman Taylor, aims to transform the central site into a dynamic residential hub with integrated amenities and reactivated public spaces.
A new vision for John Street
Situated northeast of Callaghan Square, the site benefits from exceptional connectivity, located just a ten-minute walk from Cardiff Central train station and St David’s Shopping Centre. Its strategic location along a key pedestrian route between Cardiff city centre and Cardiff Bay positions the development as a highly visible and accessible destination.
John Street plans include:
- Circa 400 high-quality Build-to-Rent homes, creating a new urban community.
- Reactivation of five railway arches, transforming them into commercial spaces and publicly accessible areas, contributing to local vibrancy.
- High-quality public realm and landscaping, enhancing the streetscape while promoting biodiversity and green spaces.
- A focus on design excellence, reflecting Cardiff’s rich heritage and local architectural identity with a carefully curated material palette.
Local impact and innovation
The development will deliver much needed high quality rental homes while contributing to Cardiff’s evolving skyline. Key benefits include new homes and commercial space, as well as job creation during construction and operation. The proposal emphasises a narrative-led design approach, blending modern urban living with Cardiff’s cultural and historical context
Enhancing connectivity and sustainability
The project takes full advantage of its proximity to public transport and urban amenities, supporting sustainable living. Public interfaces along Bute Street will enhance community engagement, while the revitalised railway arches are set to become focal points for activity and interaction. The John Street scheme is poised to become a benchmark for residential and mixed-use development in Cardiff, enriching the city’s architectural and social fabric. Concept design for the development is underway, with further details expected in the coming months.