The 2,320m2 block, which is being developed by Southwark Council, will provide 20 social rent homes on a garages plot at the edge of the estate, just off Old Kent Road. The building will sit by a couple of four-storey blocks, as well as an 11-storey block.

The project will also see improvements made to the estate, including strengthened pedestrian routes and courtyards. Chamfered corner balconies facing into the estate will help minimise anti-social behaviour.

The building shape has been designed to minimise heat loss, while its orientation will make the most of solar gain. Other Passivhaus principles used include triple-aspect windows designed to maximise daylight and reduce overheating, as well as a highly insulated fabric.

The block will also have minimal north-facing glazing and mechanical ventilation heat recovery units for use in winter, while heating will be provided by an air source heat pump.

Archio was appointed via Southwark Council’s Architect Design Framework.

Archio director Kyle Buchanan said "It has been fantastic to have the opportunity to develop the designs of new council homes for the Astley Estate, and to work closely with Southwark Council and the local community. This is exactly the kind of opportunity that the Architect Design Framework was created for and we’re looking forward to taking the plans forward. It’s a tricky site and we’re hopeful that the new homes and the wider estate improvements will make a real difference to new and existing residents alike."

Link to article on the Architect's Journal

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