We started fresh. Surveyed the site properly, mapped every tree and its root protection area, and designed around them instead of through them.
The new layout gave us room for bigger homes—better proportions, more generous spaces, proper kerb appeal. We drew inspiration from the local Victorian vernacular: those tall townhouses with their strong gable features, vertical windows, and quality brick detailing. But made them contemporary. Clean lines, efficient layouts, modern materials used intelligently.
The design respected its context without copying it. Modern homes that look like they belong on this street, not like they've been plonked there by a volume housebuilder with a catalogue.
We navigated the detailed planning process—the stage where everything gets scrutinised properly. Materials, windows, landscaping, drainage, the works. Worked with the planning officers to address their concerns. Demonstrated how the design complemented the area while delivering better homes than the previous approval.
And crucially, showed how we'd protect every TPO tree throughout construction. Root protection fencing, arboricultural method statements, the full works. No guesswork, no fingers crossed.
