‍

Since its opening in 2011, Turner Contemporary has become much more than a celebrated art gallery on Margate’s seafront. It has been a catalyst for regeneration, reinvigorating the local economy, attracting visitors from across the UK and beyond, and breathing new life into historic parts of the town. For companies like Coast Projects, specialising in heritage property renovation, the impact has been clear: Margate’s resurgence has driven demand for thoughtful restoration and investment in the built environment.

Turner Contemporary: A Cultural Anchor with Economic Muscle

Turner Contemporary was founded to celebrate the deep connection between the town and the artist J.M.W. Turner, who loved Margate’s skies and seascapes. Since opening, the gallery has welcomed millions of visitors and contributed significantly to the local economy, with estimates placing its economic impact well over £100 million, and hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.

This surge in cultural tourism has delivered a steady stream of new visitors who arrive throughout the year, not just during summer months. Many people now come to Margate specifically to see Turner’s exhibitions, participate in workshops, and explore the broader arts scene — turning what was once a fairly seasonal seaside town into a thriving cultural destination.

Tourism’s Return — and the Construction Response

With more tourists and longer seasons, the demand for quality accommodation, dining, and local experiences has increased. Margate’s Old Town, once dotted with empty shops and derelict buildings, is now home to a growing number of independent businesses occupying restored heritage properties. Vacancy rates have dropped dramatically as new cafés, galleries, boutiques and other enterprises take over once-neglected premises.

This renewed interest in the town has had a direct impact on the heritage renovation sector. Properties that sat disused for decades are now being brought back to life, either as holiday lets, boutique hotels, or desirable homes. Public-sector initiatives such as the Live Margate project are also investing millions into buying and sympathetically refurbishing derelict buildings into quality family homes, ensuring that architectural character is respected while updating interiors for modern living.

For Coast Projects, this shift has meant a significant increase in renovation enquiries and projects. We are now regularly engaged in restorations that honour original features — sash windows, cornices, brickwork, and period detailing — while upgrading buildings to contemporary standards of insulation, comfort, and functionality.

Heritage in Demand: Balancing Old and New

Margate’s evolving identity has created a unique landscape for renovation specialists. On one hand, the town’s heritage buildings — from Victorian terraces to charming cottages — are more valued than ever. Initiatives like the Margate Old Town Heritage Initiative have supported property owners with funding and guidance to restore shopfronts and traditional façades, making the historic environment an asset rather than a barrier to regeneration.

On the other hand, increased tourism and interest from outside investors have put upward pressure on property prices, creating challenges around affordability and long-term community sustainability — something local planners, heritage bodies, and developers continue to work on.

Coast Projects: Supporting Margate’s Built Legacy

At Coast Projects, we’re proud to be part of Margate’s ongoing transformation. Our work — whether restoring a character home in Cliftonville, renovating a terrace in the Old Town, or upgrading an historic beachfront property — reflects a commitment to preserving the past while adapting for the future.

We’ve seen firsthand how Turner Contemporary’s presence has drawn attention to Margate’s architectural charm and helped make heritage renovation a priority for individuals and businesses alike. This increased focus on conservation and quality craft has not only supported local trades but also helped sustain the town’s unique sense of place.

Looking Ahead

As Margate continues its renaissance — with new cultural investments, residential projects, and creative ventures underway — the intersection of tourism, heritage, and community will remain a defining theme. Turner Contemporary set the spark; now, the town’s buildings are being reshaped for a vibrant future that honours both history and potential.

If you’re considering a renovation project in Margate and want to work with a team experienced in heritage properties, get in touch with Coast Projects. We’d love to help you be part of Margate’s next chapter.

‍

If you would like to know more about what is on offer at The Turner Contemporary then click here

‍