The Beckett, one of Tunbridge Wells’ premier retirement living developments, has been recognised by the Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society for excellence in design and architecture in this year’s annual awards.
Founded in 1959, the Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society is an independent, non-political organisation dedicated to protecting, preserving, and enhancing the built environment of Royal Tunbridge Wells. Its annual awards, now in their 43rd year, celebrate projects that make a significant contribution to the architectural and community landscape of Royal Tunbridge Wells.
The Beckett, created and operated by leading retirement living developer Elysian Residences, was designed by award-winning architectural practice Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, and has created 89 new apartments and a new restaurant, Maxwell. Their design for the new-build scheme pays homage to the area’s rich 400-year architectural history, while concealing a serene urban oasis in the form of a landscaped courtyard garden.
This year’s awards received over twenty-four entries, with only a select few projects ultimately receiving an award. Each nominated entry is carefully assessed by an expert judging panel, chaired by David Wright, and is comprised of local architects, planners, and heritage specialists. David Wright first became involved with the Civic Society after receiving an award himself for reinstating the original lead covered canopy on his Grade II listed home in Calverley Park, a project that restored the building to Decimus Burton’s original vision. His longstanding commitment to architectural integrity and local heritage brings valuable insight and experience to the judging process. Each panel member assesses the entries independently against a weighted set of criteria, including design quality, architectural detailing, materials, finish, and contribution to local character.
The award-winning North Elevation, of The Beckett facing Woodbury Park Road, was singled out for recognition and commended for its thoughtful detailing, materials, and its elegant integration into the surrounding streetscape.
The accolade was presented at the Civic Society’s Annual Awards Ceremony, held on 9 October 2025, where the Mayor of Royal Tunbridge Wells, Councillor David Osborne, was in attendance to present the Award to Ed Blake, Project Manager at Elysian Residences, Dips Loyal, Project Director at Elysian Residences, and Paul de Hoxar, Architect at Allford Hall Monaghan Morris.
This year’s Civic Society Awards also recognised The Chocolate Factory, Culverden Square Town Houses, SureStore on North Farm Road, Stables Cottage on Calverley Road, Former School Building on Windmill Street, and Verve at Spire Court. In addition to the property awards, Seth Hunter received a special Community Contribution Award for the Buddi Bench initiative in Calverley Grounds, celebrating positive social impact alongside architectural achievement.
David Wright, chair of the Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society Awards judging panel said: “The Awards are an important way of encouraging and recognising quality design and architecture, key factors in shaping the future of any town, and especially vital in a place with the historic character of Royal Tunbridge Wells.
“The Award for The Beckett’s North Elevation celebrates the thoughtful design that reflects the local architecture. The choice of materials and the quality of detailing demonstrate a clear sensitivity to the town’s historic context, creating a building that contributes positively to its surroundings.”
Gavin Stein, CEO of Elysian Residences says: “It’s an honour to receive the Award from the Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society and encouraging to see Elysian’s attention to design and finish being recognised by the community in which The Beckett stands. We are committed to creating exceptional buildings and communities, that not only enhance the lives of those living in them, but also complement and contribute positively to their surroundings and the wider community.”
Apartments at The Beckett are available from £359,000 (other fees apply). For further information or to arrange a viewing please call +44 (0) 1892 346778 or visit elysianresidences.com. Lunch and dinner bookings for Maxwell can be made by telephone – T: 01892 956586 or online through OpenTable.co.uk