InsideOut designed, and obtained planning permission for, this landscape-led Passivhaus development consisting of 14 family houses arranged in such a way that all of them opened up into a communal central woodland, a place for children to play and a community to be built. Every effort was made to eliminate obvious boundary conditions in the central space that would interfere with this sense of community, but all of the houses have their own private gardens too, which mostly back onto the site boundary. A modern interpretation of the local Kent vernacular was adopted across all 4 different house types.
The project has been shortlisted for the Housing Project Award with The Sunday Times British Homes Awards.
Having been heavily involved with our client in the very early decision to proceed with a Passivhaus development of exemplary design quality, this project has been very close to our hearts and is a reflection of our approach to appropriate and responsible design.
Initially a very complex planning policy challenge, InsideOut successfully obtained permission from Swale Council for this residential scheme in an open countryside location, having also received extremely positive feedback from the Design South East panel. The scheme’s clear ambitions in terms of design quality and sustainability were instrumental in its successful outcome.
“Through several projects, we have always been impressed by the knowledge, diligence and professionalism of the team at InsideOut. They overcome difficulties with inventiveness and flair and, to top it all, they are really nice people to work with.”
Paul Cohen, Warren Holdings Ltd