Fourth_space was approached by Sapphire Independent Housing Group to provide feasibility studies and to help assess the viability of 16 garage sites earmarked for the potential provision of housing. The proposals formed part of a number of sites identified for Hounslow’s ‘5000 Pledge’ – that aims to create 5,000 new affordable homes on redeveloped old garage sites across the borough for local people.

Upon Sapphire’s acquisition of the sites, As lead consultant Fourth_space worked closely with the council through pre-app, planning submission and public consultations to transform the range of one-storey garages into a series of residential projects varying in size, typology and complexity. Each plot required its own specific design response, however the viability of each could be ensured despite the differences in scale and context, by carefully considering a simple palate of materials and fixtures that could be standardised. Working on all 16 sites simultaneously allowed the development team to have a rolling programme of discussions and feedback with the local authority. Over the course of many months the design process evolved to address a range of concerns in some detail from ease of construction, cost of structure, and servicing strategy, to impact on surroundings, overlooking, access, bins, security, maintenance, communal & private amenity, as well as zero carbon targets.

In design terms, Fourth_space offered an ambitious, consistent and simple architectural approach across all of the sites that explored spatial opportunities on a volumetric basis, in order to maximize the number of dwellings and assist Sapphire in their role as a registered social landlord. This enabled a ‘single architecture’ to marry a boldness in massing, with a sensitivity to the surroundings, and respond to cost constraints whilst addressing planning policy requirements. Planning consent was secured for 13 out of the original 16 sites.

The sites will be developed as urgently required social rented/affordable homes and Sapphire has an excellent track record as managing landlord and accommodation provider to those people most in housing need. Fourth_space and client sought to deliver high quality interior spaces, robust, energy efficient and low maintenance homes, that aspired to enhance the lives of tenants, the quality of the surrounding area and make a positive contribution to the local community.