Lighthaus is a 31-storey Build-to-Rent landmark at Liverpool Waters, designed by Falconer Chester Hall for Starlight Investments and delivered by Vermont Construction. The scheme delivers 278 homes within a slender, sculpted tower that strengthens the emerging residential cluster at Princes Dock while establishing a confident architectural presence on one of the city’s most exposed waterfront edges.
Working closely with Peel Waters, X1 Developments and Vermont Construction, the design brings together resilient materials, elegant proportions and a carefully modelled façade inspired by the dockside setting. Its capless unitised glazing, anodised aluminium ventilation elements and marine-grade detailing have been crafted to perform in challenging wind and weather conditions, giving Lighthaus a clean, uninterrupted expression that elevates the waterfront skyline.
Architecture shaped by its maritime setting
The tower’s façade represents a major technical achievement. Full-height triple glazing, calibrated solar-control performance and integrated ventilation panels support comfort and environmental efficiency, while the 11-storey podium is wrapped in Cosentino Dekton – one of the first large-scale applications of the material in the UK. This robust base anchors the building visually and structurally, creating a refined transition between tower, street and dockside.
At ground level, Lighthaus improves permeability around Princes Dock with approximately 67 metres of animated frontage and a new pedestrian route connecting the waterfront to the wider city. These interventions strengthen movement, activity and street presence, supporting the long-term placemaking ambitions of the Liverpool Waters masterplan.
Amenity-rich living with hospitality-led interiors
Residents benefit from a generous suite of indoor and outdoor amenities, including an 11th-floor terrace, co-working spaces, fitness facilities and a dramatic sky lounge with panoramic views across the Mersey. The interiors, designed by FCH in collaboration with Starlight, follow a warm, hospitality-inspired palette with integrated technology throughout — reflected in the building’s WiredScore Platinum accreditation.
Layouts have been carefully planned to maximise light and long views, with performance-led measures such as triple glazing, slimline blinds, MVHR and an all-electric heating strategy supporting year-round comfort. Several homes also incorporate KERS heat-pump technology to further reduce energy use.
Creating social value and supporting local skills
The project has delivered significant community benefits, with 68% of the workforce recruited locally, supported through partnerships with Placed Academy, Mploy Solutions, Training Strategies Organisation, Liverpool College, LJMU and the City of Liverpool Construction Academy. Apprenticeships, graduate roles and work placements have played a key role in the scheme’s delivery.
A key milestone for Liverpool Waters
Lighthaus continues FCH’s long-standing contribution to Liverpool’s northern docklands, following The Lexington and alongside new proposals such as Old Hall Street and The Gateway. As the district evolves, the tower sets a new benchmark for residential quality, skyline contribution and technical performance, helping to shape a vibrant and sustainable new waterfront neighbourhood.
