Jasper Sanders + Partners, in collaboration with architects Manson, have delivered a state-of-the-art co-living scheme for Watkin Jones – the UK’s leading developer and manager of residential for rent, with a focus on the build to rent, student accommodation and affordable housing sectors. Located in the historic city of Exeter, The Gorge is a striking new-build development managed by Fresh.

At the heart of The Gorge is a versatile ground-floor amenity offering, designed by Jasper Sanders + Partners to cater to professionals. The scheme features a welcoming entrance and concierge, lounges designed for both work and relaxation, as well as a fully equipped fitness suite. Central to the communal experience is the co-living kitchen, carefully conceived to foster a strong sense of community – encouraging residents to cook, eat, and socialise together outside of their private studio apartments. This space, defined by generous glazing, serves as a focal point of the ground floor, maximising daylight and offering views onto the resident courtyard and outdoor terrace.

Jasper Sanders + Partners also led the scheme’s brand strategy, including the choice of name, drawing inspiration from the nearby Devonshire countryside, with its heathlands, valleys and dramatic coastlines. The interior concept extends this narrative through a rich material palette -earthy terracotta tones and calming blues subtly defining different spaces and zoning within the open-plan amenity areas. A key visual element is the use of local contour maps, which add layers of pattern and texture to both interior and exterior elements, creating a cohesive design language. This is further enriched by a series of playful icons that not only represent the function of each space but offer intuitive wayfinding for an international resident base.

The entrance area features a bespoke reception desk finished in Egger laminate, with ‘The Gorge’ marque illuminated on the rear wall, creating a strong brand presence upon arrival. Adjacent to this, the open-plan lounge is designed to foster socialisation and engagement among residents. The modular Symbol seating collection by NaughtOne echoes the fluidity of curved landscapes while ensuring functionality through its adaptable design.

A cohesive lighting approach is achieved with pendants and wall-mounted fixtures by Flos, strategically highlighting key areas such as the coffee station to enhance zoning and visual interest. Serving as a backdrop to the open-plan amenity spaces, the building’s core is wrapped in a bespoke wallpaper, designed by the Jasper Sanders + Partners team, featuring layered earth tones, adding both a tactile quality and a clear sense of spatial orientation within the building.

The project’s 133 studio apartments feature an innovative modular furniture system, designed to accommodate a range of room sizes, configurations, and resident needs—ensuring flexibility and comfort within the living spaces.

Design: Jasper Sanders + Partners
Architect: Manson (Edinburgh)
Contractor: Watkin Jones
Photography: Gunner Gu