We were approached by a client with a long, narrow urban plot accessed at both ends. Our brief was to design a new family home at the rear of the existing site, capable of maximising developable area whilst navigating significant constraints including maintaining adequate daylight to neighbouring properties.

Our design response was developed through a careful reading of existing site conditions, with our approach to massing, apertures and materiality curated in response to site constraints and opportunities. The building is designed to step down as it approaches existing neighbours to avoid overshadowing, whilst wrap-around glazing at the ground floor provides a focal point at a prominent corner on the street. Establishing early dialogue with the Local Authority has been key to understanding their views on our initial design ideas.

Through rigorous research and a collaborative dialogue, we have been able to demonstrate that this highly constrained site has the potential to support a generous 3-bedroom family home and dramatically improve the street scene. Currently submitted for planning, a decision is due in summer 2024 with a start on site anticipated in early 2025.