Pullman House

ECE Architecture

Transforming a brownfield former petrol station into a landmark 7-storey, car-free residential scheme in Rochester, gaining planning approval after extensive stakeholder engagement.

Situated on a brownfield site beside Rochester’s train station, Pullman House delivers 64 apartments across six floors, with two ground-floor commercial units. After years of unsuccessful planning attempts, our team secured approval through rigorous consultation with Medway Council, Historic England, local councillors, and the public, aligning with Rochester’s regeneration master plan and climate ambitions.

The design draws on historic references while presenting contemporary interpretations that respond to the surrounding context. Scale and massing balance with the town’s character, creating a landmark that contributes to regeneration while offering a sustainable, car-free living environment. The project utilises internal technical expertise across RIBA Stages 1-6 to ensure feasibility and delivery viability.

Key challenges included overcoming previous planning setbacks and combining heritage considerations with modern use. We navigated complex stakeholder dynamics, refined massing and materials, and demonstrated deliverability through robust technical documentation and detailed consultations. The result is a clear, credible planning path that confirmed the scheme’s value and long-term contribution to Rochester.

The development supports local economic vitality by enabling mixed-use activity with ground-floor stores and convenient access to transport links. Our integrated approach ensured design quality, technical integrity, and deliverability, reinforcing ECE’s commitment to regenerative practice and sustainable urban living.

Pullman House is an example of brownfield regeneration, thoughtful design, and a rigorously delivered planning process that underpins future milestones in the city’s master plan.