It was important from the outset to keep the community intact and encourage as many of the original estate’s tenants to return. Through the residents’ steering group, we talked, listened and learned what mattered to them most. We made sure our plan was flexible enough to accommodate their shifting requirements, along with the aspirations of a new generation of occupants.

People were forever getting lost on the old estate. Now each block has its own identity making it much easier for everyone to get their bearings. Communal entrances are highlighted with coloured glazed bricks and gates include a pineapple pattern, inspired by decorative carving found on the original site and a sign of welcome and hospitality.

The second phase of development consists of three blocks. At its heart is the community centre, fronting on to a new public square and children’s play area; open and welcoming to everyone on the estate and the wider neighbourhood.

54 self-contained apartments for social rent are built above the centre, eight of them fully wheelchair accessible. All have generous balconies, staggered to maximise opportunities for neighbourly conversation. Communal areas on the third floor include lounges and a terrace. There are also assisted bathrooms, a laundry, spa and hairdressers and a guest suite.

Above the entrance to the centre is a ‘tree of modern life’ sculpture, one of several brick artworks planned for each phase of the development created by Rodney Harris and Valda Jackson, depicting the past, present, and future of the estate and its residents.

Working with the same client over all three phases and on every aspect of the development – from its footprint to its fixtures and fittings – we have been able to evolve, flex and adapt the design to the needs of the community as we go along. We’ve created a successful, connected neighbourhood of spacious, contemporary apartments, filled with the little details inside and out that make a home.

Our post occupancy evaluation of the first phase of development revealed that, without exception, existing residents had felt well informed about their future homes. More than seven out of 10 residents live next to at least four of their old neighbours and 85% say they are enjoying life.