Our mixed-tenure scheme provides 19 terrace houses forming part of a wider three-site development of over 100 much needed family homes. These are bolstered by supporting new uses including a sports centre, vibrant cafe, local business units and vital healthcare services. The masterplan established new streets responding to the mansion block and community centre completed during Phase 1.

Driving our clients’ ambitions for creating high quality social housing, this detailed design and construction phase focuses on three and four-bedroom family homes. At the heart of the interlinked schemes are the two new Community Centres and office for Emmaus, a charity providing job opportunities and training for the homeless and vulnerable members of society.

Slimline coping profiles distinguish different housing types while bringing an element of playfulness referencing the historic Oxford skyline. The distinctive slate roofs sit above calm, rhythmic elevation of textured brick and punched apertures. The slatted timber volume creates a hard-working porch that conceals storage, providing privacy and a sense of arrival. Importantly, it also adds a delicate layering to the facades at eye level, lending warmth and homeliness.

Modern, modular, hybrid SIPs construction facilitated an increased speed in delivery and reduction of on-site waste. Our sustainability principles also informed our landscape strategy. New opportunities for active travel are incorporated alongside a series of new ponds forming part of a wider network of Sustainable Urban Drainage with increasing biodiversity.

The scheme is used as a benchmark for the JV partner Oxford City Council, in delivering contextual high quality new social housing. The rehousing of families on the housing waiting list saw over 600 applicants per property, balancing need with a desire to live in well planned and beautiful affordable building.