John Street, Plaistow

We developed 70 affordable homes in West Ham for the London Borough of Newham, this includes 1200m² of landscaped central open space, with 24 new trees planted.

The project was developed by concept designer Avanti Architects to meet high levels of sustainability and energy efficiency in support of Newham’s Net Zero Carbon objectives. On completion, it met Passivhaus Classic standard, providing high levels of thermal comfort and low energy bills for residents. To meet this standard during design development, the delivery architect MEPK worked closely with MEP Designer, Synergy Consulting, and Passivhaus Designer, Delta Q. The final design and building on completion were signed off by Passivhaus Certifier, Etude.

Homes were generously proportioned, with corner balconies for apartments and large pergola rooftop terraces for townhouses that benefited from good sunlight while allowing the floorspace to be maximised. Being partly funded by the Greater London Authority, the project met stringent design and programme requirements, such as providing cycle parking and achieving a prompt start on site.

We supported 45 local Newham residents back into work through our project Employment and Training Plan, achieved by providing 7 site visits, 13 work placements, 4 London Living Wage paid internships, and 8 full-time jobs for local residents.

We also met a 35% local spend target, keeping Newham’s money circulating within the borough. Donations to local charities and 250 allocated volunteering hours helped the project benefit Newham residents who most needed it. We supported healthy eating in the borough by providing spaces for 30 candidates to learn cooking, healthy eating, and budgeting skills with specialist organisation Eat Club.