At a time when housing crises loom large and vulnerable people often struggle to find stable accommodation, innovative solutions that prioritise sustainability and inclusivity are a beacon of hope. One such initiative is the 8-flat modular development undertaken for the charitable organisation Transform Housing & Support. What sets this project apart is not just its goal of providing homes for single mothers with young babies, but also its commitment to female representation and sustainable living.
[R-L; Suzanne (TH&S), Hayley, Sarah and Pelin (P&P), Natalie (TH&S)]
The heart of this development is the ethos of empowerment. Recognising the unique challenges faced by single mothers, particularly those with very young children, Transform sought to create a space that not only offers shelter but also fosters a supportive community. By providing housing specifically tailored to their needs, the project aims to alleviate some of the burdens these mothers face, offering them a stable foundation upon which to build brighter futures for themselves and their children.
What makes this project even more remarkable is the composition of its team. With 100% of the direct client and consultant project team being women, it’s a testament to the power of female leadership in driving positive change. From conception to execution, women have been at the forefront, bringing their expertise to every aspect of the development process. This not only challenges traditional norms within the construction industry, but also sets a precedent for future projects to follow suit.
The collaboration between Transform and Playle & Partners is not a recent venture. In fact, the working relationship spans over 25 years, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to addressing homelessness and providing support to vulnerable people. This longstanding relationship between the teams lays a solid foundation for collaborative working.
“We’ve been working with Playle & Partners for many years, and we’ve always been pleased with their professionalism and approachability. There’s a natural synergy that comes from years of collaboration and this is especially a benefit on projects where we’re working outside of our normal practices. This particular scheme is our first modular development and we’re delighted with the quality and spaciousness of the flats. Even more so we are excited about the use of renewable energy and other efficient measures on the scheme, which will benefit Transform clients directly. While the project has presented its share of challenges along the way, working together with a strong team has meant any issues have been addressed quickly and effectively. I am looking forward to the moment when we can hand these homes over to their new residents.”
Suzanne EdwardsSustainability is a core goal of the project. With a focus on achieving an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of A, the development incorporates photovoltaic (PV) panels that directly deliver energy to each individual flat. This not only reduces the carbon footprint of the building but also ensures long-term cost savings for its residents. By harnessing renewable energy sources, the project aligns with broader efforts to combat climate change and create a more environmentally conscious built environment.
The use of modular construction further underscores the project’s commitment to efficiency and affordability. By prefabricating components off-site, waste is reduced and the installation of the modules on site can be completed efficiently. Moreover, modular construction offers greater precision and quality control, resulting in buildings that meet or exceed quality expectations.
This development for Transform stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when compassion, innovation, and sustainability converge. By addressing the specific needs of single mothers with young children and placing women in leadership roles, the project not only provides much-needed housing but also empowers its residents to envision brighter futures for themselves and their children.
“We are incredibly proud to be carrying out this scheme with Transform Housing & Support, who are always a pleasure to work with. The project has been in two distinct stages, and seeing the modular elements come together in the factory was truly fascinating. The best part of the project is the difference it will make for the future tenants. The design of the flats has been planned to cater to their specific needs and as a mother of a young child myself, I can appreciate some of the challenges of the layouts and what will and will not work. The flats have been designed with care to accommodate the demands of raising children while also affording parents their own space. I can’t wait for the moment the families move in.”
Hayley Poynter FenningPerhaps most importantly, the flats themselves are designed with the residents’ well-being in mind. Offering generous accommodation, the units prioritise comfort and functionality, ensuring that they serve as more than just temporary shelters but as true homes where families can thrive. From ample living spaces to thoughtfully designed amenities, every aspect of the development reflects a commitment to creating a nurturing environment for its residents. The flats meet or exceed both the London Housing Design Guide and National Housing standards.
Site Plan with new development at rear