East designed an urban block of 15 housing units at an infill site in East London. The block includes a public hall at its entrance connecting to adjacent external communal and public spaces,

Through careful stepping and shaping of the building we make maximum use of the available site and sunlight, while being mindful of the existing residents. The proposed building makes a new relationship with the buildings around through the shaping of a new accessible and attractive public realm, creating a positive presence on the street.

The communal history of the site is reflected in a generous shared entrance hall for all new residents, which provides an active face on Shellness Road. Active uses include post boxes and cycle storage. A small kitchen supports residents’ celebrations and provides a semi-sheltered area for children to play. The rooftop can be used for communal gardening and food growing and for drying laundry.

Most flats are double aspects with south facing balconies.

Simplicity, resilience and flexibility are the key strategies for this design. Robustness of construction, high level of insulation, good cross ventilation, passive heat gain with options for shading, and water recycling on the roofs and terraces are the key aspects of making sustainability last. Smart electric as well as smart water meters are displayed prominently within the flats, so residents can relate costs to units consumed.

Location: Pembury Estate, Hackney

Client: Peabody competitions

Project status: Proposal