The new community of Newhall in Harlow, Essex, has become a focus for design innovation, thanks to the drive and commitment of landowners Jon and William Moen. Its latest addition is slo@South Chase, which is developed by housing association Moat and SCNH. The scheme’s name slo stands for simple living opportunities and this neighbourhood quarter of 78 mixed tenure family homes and apartments provides an easy, eco-friendly lifestyle. The design by Proctor and Matthews Architects combines a contemporary aesthetic with sensitivity to local materials, colour and texture. Homes are flexible, adaptable and airy, having a central lightwell to bring in natural light and reduce energy consumption. As much emphasis is placed on living outdoors as indoors, with courtyards and gardens designed to serve as an extension of the family home. The aim is to break the boundary between internal and external environments, increasing the living space and integrating the home with its surrounding landscape. The scheme is constructed using FutureForm Building Systems’ modular construction technology, which reduces waste dramatically and improves quality. Kitchens and bathrooms are assembled off-site in the factory, and the efficient production methods allow customers to personalise house arrangements, with a home being ready for delivery in just 16 weeks. The design is close to level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, which is achieved by the use of modern methods of construction, ground source heat pumps, low flush lavatories, low energy lighting and natural building materials. The masterplan also includes green spaces and the scheme incorporates a significant amount of planting. As an eco-friendly finishing touch, every home has integrated cycle storage. |
