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.

Each home is larger than its predecessor– with private balconies or gardens, as well as many more communal and public spaces for residents to enjoy. A new community hall, shops and offices will bring an added dynamism and feeling of the high street to the place.

Many of Burridge Gardens’ residents have lived there a long time and witnessed a great deal. We wanted to keep the site’s past and their memories alive in the fabric of the new buildings through sculpted objects created by sculptors Valda Jackson and Rodney Harris, such as a larger-than-life WWII officer’s jacket over a communal entrance. These reliefs will evolve with the phases of the development, moving from the war years to the present day.

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. To create a successful, connected neighbourhood of spacious, contemporary apartments, filled with the little details inside and out that make a home.

Our post occupancy evaluation 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.