Rotherfield Crescent


This proposal creates a new community of 3 family houses around a varied landscape with communal outdoor eating area and facilities for storage and gardening. Friendly relations between the new development and existing neighbours are promoted with improvements to the access road and a selling point for home-grown produce. Pedestrian and vehicle access rights to existing properties are maintained with improved security.

The design concept provides a new central south-facing landscape space with varied levels, seating and play spaces. A communal building provides storage for bicycles, gardening equipment and a large south-facing bench. Consultation with the Council's housing and landscape teams has been influential in the design of central landscape space. The design was awarded First Prize in the RIBA New Homes for Neighbourhoods competition.


The Rotherfield Crescent project prioritizes sustainability in line with BHCC policies. We place a strong emphasis on the maintenance and cultivation of private and communal garden spaces, fostering communal living and sustainable practices. Key initiatives include:

Communal Garden The design encourages home food production and collaboration among residents for garden maintenance, promoting sustainable living.

Low-Maintenance Layout: The layout is designed for ease of maintenance, ensuring the longevity and functionality of garden and communal spaces.

Central Garden Space: The central garden features ample grass and trees, providing versatile open space for outdoor activities and community interaction.

Communal Dining Area: Residents can enjoy communal meals with a view of the South Downs AONB, enhancing their connection to nature.

Gardening Tool Store: A shared tool store facilitates gardening and community cultivation.

Energy Efficiency: The project reduces reliance on non-renewable energy sources and drainage systems through, enhanced building insulation, air source heat pumps and photovoltaic panels for each unit, and efficient soakaways for stormwater drainage.