Thomas Hitchman - The South Downs Gateway Hub

Project overview

The South Downs Gateway Hub is a new mixed use structure in central Chichester, operating as an exhibition space and urban gateway to the South Downs National Park.

A white architectural model with green roof sections, showing a multi‑level building with a tower, arched openings, and interconnected blocks.
A white architectural model with green roof sections, showing a multi‑level building with a tower, arched openings, and interconnected blocks.

Community and Culture

The structure includes two exhibitions - one focussing on the community & culture, and another focussing on the environment. The structure also includes ten residential units, reusing the existing goods shed from the old rail functions as new contemporary housing. Visually, the Gateway Hub includes many natural materials including flint, chalk and greensand stone, pushing the geology of the Downs into an urban environment.

Environment and Landscape

A second exhibition explores the environment, drawing on the geology and character of the South Downs. The building incorporates natural materials including flint, chalk and greensand stone, pushing the landscape qualities of the Downs into an urban setting.

Two‑storey gallery space with a central staircase, people viewing displays on both levels, and a large green geometric wall sculpture.
Modern building with a tall tower, pale stone cladding, angled columns at the entrance canopy, and people walking across the open plaza in front of the South Downs Gateway Hub.