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Smith’s Garden

Project Details

Business:
Caxton Builders
Project name:
Smith's Garden
Sector:
Residential & commercial
Main contractor:
Elements Europe
Client:
Goodstone Living
Architect:
Darling Associates

We’re thrilled to share a contract award for Caxton Builders – Smith’s Garden, (Camp Hill) – a brand-new residential and commercial development in Digbeth, Birmingham’s vibrant and creative quarter.

Working with main contractor Elements Europe for client Goodstone Living, Caxton Builders began work on-site in July 24 with substructure brickwork. The project value is £8.5 million, Caxton Builders largest project to date. Martin Bellinger, Principal at Goodstone Living, said: “Smith’s Garden is one of the largest and most exciting Build to Rent (BTR) residential projects in the UK and is testament to the evolution of this sector over the past 15 years.”

smith's garden

Build-to-rent development 

Smith’s Garden is a 550-bed development, the largest modular BTR scheme in the country. Spread across five blocks, the development showcases the future of urban living, with a mix of modern apartments and family townhouses.

The development will feature six buildings, ranging from three to 26 storeys, all surrounding one acre of private green space. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and well-being, this project aligns with Digbeth’s vibrant live-work-play culture.

Elements Europe 

David Jones, CEO for Elements Europe commented, “Elements Europe is dedicated to innovation and excellence. With a commitment to sustainable practices and cutting-edge technology, we strive to transform the construction industry and create lasting, impactful structures”.

This project represents a significant milestone in the construction sector, incorporating innovative techniques and technologies to enhance efficiency, sustainability and affordability. With its exceptional design and attention to detail, this residential community sets a new standard for modern living in Birmingham. The scheme will be sustainably built with +50% reduction in operational carbon and a +30% in embodied carbon (vs. current UK building regulations).

Designed for resident well-being

Architecturally designed space by Darling Associates focuses on resident well-being, while also celebrating Digbeth’s rich industrial heritage. Residents will benefit from significant open green space vs. any competing scheme in Birmingham, with only 37% site coverage.

smith's garden

What’s inside Smith’s Garden?

The development includes a mix of one to three-bedroom apartments and standalone four-bedroom family townhouses. Residents will also have access to a host of premium amenities. Over 21,000 square feet of space will be dedicated to lifestyle features such as:

  • a state-of-the-art gym
  • a crèche
  • workspaces for freelancers and entrepreneurs
  • rooftop terraces for leisure and relaxation
  • and central green communal space.

smith's garden

Commercial opportunities

The development will also include circa. 15,000 square feet of commercial space, ideal for restaurants, cafés, boutiques, and start-ups. By including affordable units, the development aims to encourage independent businesses and foster a unique, creative environment. 

Progress so far 

Ian Knight, Caxton Builders Managing Director said, “The Smith’s Garden project is progressing well, with completion set for late 2025. We’re committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable development that sets a new standard for urban living. Our team is doing a fantastic job, having been awarded Safety Contractor of the Month twice within just three months. This is a milestone project for Caxton Builders – look out for further updates as the project progresses”. (Pictured below, Nigel Lynch, Senior Construction Manager, Caxton Builders). 

smith's garden

Image credits: Goodstone Living & Elements Europe.