The first pictures of a 21st Century skyscraper which could tower over Brighton and Hove have been released.

Josh Arghiros, of Karis Developments, believes the 16-storey building containing 125 flats would become a landmark for the city.

But hundreds of people living near the former Endeavour garage site in Preston Road have complained about the scale of the £20 million tower.

They say the modern sweeps and curves of the block, designed by Brighton architect Piers Gough, would dwarf the neighbouring Victorian rail viaduct and overshadow surrounding homes.

Mr Arghiros last night hit back, saying all the best examples of architecture were controversial because they were different.

Mr Arghiros, who only builds in Brighton and Hove, said: "What we want to do is build the very best, not just for the people who live there but for the city.

"Piers has been exporting Brighton architecture all over the world and this is the first opportunity he has had to build something of significance in the city.

"He knows the personality of Brighton and he has manifested that in the building. It is a good scheme for the city and it is absolutely beautiful."

The site has planning permission for 125 flats of which 50 will be "affordable".

These are already under construction but permission has yet to be given for the final design of the larger building.

In the new proposals every flat would have an outdoor area, such as roof garden or balcony, with stunning views of the surrounding area.

All residents would have 24-hour access to a car club, which would have six cars they could book and use when they wished.

The circular parts of the skyscraper are designed to reflect other features of the city, such as the Regency garrets of Brunswick Square.

Residents in the surrounding area have been concerned about the lack of on-site car parking and the loss of light.

But Mr Arghiros said the car club was not just paying lip service to environmentalists. He believed it would be a success.

He said: "We have listened to residents' concerns and we have gone back and addressed some of those. We are looking at implementing more parking on site. However, we have a real eagerness for the car club.

"We genuinely believe it's something that works."

Mr Arghiros dismissed suggestions the building would be floodlit at night.

He said the company was employing Gavin Fraser, who is one of Britain's leading lighting artists and responsible for the Blinking Eye bridge at Gateshead.

He also said the building had been designed not to block the surrounding residents' light.

The father-of-five said: "I don't believe people have read the design report. It shows the sensitivity that has been used in the design and explains the thinking behind it.

"I have been offered work all over the place but I won't do it. I have lived in Brighton since I was ten and I think it is the best city in Britain.

"The best architecture is controversial but once it is built it becomes venerated."