Leading UK developer Berkeley Homes has launched a Dh28 million ($7.62 million) penthouse on the south coast at its prestigious Gunwharf Quays development in Portsmouth with an eye on investors from the Middle East.

Over 15 per cent of the buyers at Gunwharf Quays have had connections in the Middle East and many of the properties in the building have been let to expats returning from the region, said a top Berkeley Homes official.

The penthouse is set on top of the 29 storey No.1 Gunwharf Quays tower, which is the tallest residential building on the UK’s south coast and is the focal point of Berkeley Homes’ Dh1.1 billion ($299.4 million) landmark regeneration of the area.

The three-bedroom penthouse will offer 4,600 sq. ft. of luxury living space and no less than four private terraces, all providing spectacular views of the Solent, the UK’s millionaire yachting playground.

Robin Rixon, director of sales and marketing for Berkeley Homes at Gunwharf Quays, said, "No.1 Gunwharf Quays has already attracted residents from across the Middle East including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia and Qatar."

"The prestigious nature of the building combined with the iconic architecture and dramatic skyline views seem to have attracted buyers from the region and we would not be surprised to see the penthouse being sold to a Middle Eastern buyer looking for a UK coastal home," he observed.

According to Rixon, the size and scale of the penthouse will appeal to both Middle Eastern buyers and returning expats who are currently based in the region.

With interiors designed by renowned Honky Design, which usually undertakes private commissions for some of central London’s most expensive homes in Knightsbridge, Belgravia and Mayfair, the penthouse sets a new benchmark in design and luxury for coastal living.

Rixon pointed out that the tower was the dramatic final phase of Berkeley Homes’ Gunwharf Quays development.

"Rising to nearly 100 metres and 29 storeys, affording spectacular panoramic views over Portsmouth, the harbour and the ocean, No.1 Gunwharf Quays will also accommodate 139 one, two and three bedroom apartments," he added.

The large open plan day space incorporates a Dh560,000 bespoke, hand crafted Boffi kitchen and incorporates a combination of stylish white lacquered units with graphite oak cupboards to create a sleek but warm feel.

The air conditioned penthouse is accessed via a secure high speed lift, operated by a special key, which opens directly into the magnificent entrance hall.

"The £200 million Gunwharf Quays regeneration has transformed the former Royal Navy Ordnance yard into a world-class waterfront leisure destination which attracts over 8 millions visitors each year, he noted.

"The bustling 33-acre scheme combines luxury waterside homes with one of the most successful shopping centres on the south coast featuring 20 cosmopolitan bars & restaurants, a 14-screen Warner Village Cinema, Bowlplex, casino, hotel and Jongleurs comedy club," he added.

The wide variety of retailers includes well-known names such as Paul Smith, Karen Millen, Polo Ralph Lauren, Austin Reed, Marks & Spencer, LK Bennett and Molton Brown. The ground floor of No.1 Gunwharf Quays is now home to Raymond Blanc’s Brasserie Blanc offering modern and authentic French cuisine.

The penthouse at No.1 Gunwharf Quays is being marketed with an asking price of £5 million ($7.81 million) with all furnishings available by separate negotiation.-TradeArabia News Service