Whalebones Planning Approval
- Category: News
- Date Published: 14th March 2024
We are delighted to announce that our Whalebones project for Hill has received a resolution to grant planning approval from London Borough of Barnet’s Planning Committee.
Whalebones is a new-build residential scheme that aims to breathe new life into a currently inaccessible, but idyllic hillside site, with the profound commitment to preserving the sites rich history and ecological integrity. With Hill first bringing forward plans for this site in 2019, we are delighted to have been able to collaborate with them to realise this sympathetic project which seeks to integrate itself into this special location.
The masterplan is designed to blend the architectural forms in to the natural landscape, whilst responding to the surrounding context and retaining an existing sense of openness. The project opens new, previously inaccessible green space to the public, providing meandering woodland and grassland walks, play space and a new studio building with facilities for the artists and beekeepers that currently use the site. The buildings are designed to nestle into the natural landscape. To the north the house designs draw upon a barn vernacular in terms of their form and character.
The development aims to deliver 115 new homes, 40% of which will be affordable housing (by unit), with a mix of dwelling typologies. Approximately half of the site will be transformed into publicly accessible open space, including play areas, healing gardens, ponds, and meadows, inviting people to connect with nature in various ways. The new Woodland Walk will weave across the site, and an increase in trees and enhanced vegetation will encourage new ecological characteristics and habitats.
The architectural design thoughtfully respects the conservation area, with strategic placement of sensitive forms, retaining a sense of openness. The architectural forms, materials and details pay homage to the local vernacular, whilst creating a new contemporary character that echoes elements of the surrounding context and the sites historic values. The use of carefully selected brick variations, details and roof tiles respect the conservation area, the site’s history, and heritage.
Whalebones is designed to be a low-carbon, low-energy, and low-impact development. Sustainable features such as Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDs), and Air Source Heat Pumps will be integrated, promoting an eco-friendly lifestyle for the residents.
