Step Exhibitions
Englishcombe Lane Supported Housing – Arcadis
Nominee Information
In response to the increasing demand for housing supply in Bath and North East Somerset, the Council embarked on a significant initiative through the B&NES Homes Programme to develop supported and social housing. Englishcombe Lane stands out as a promising opportunity to cater to a variety of needs, providing a serene and peaceful environment for bespoke new housing tailored to individuals, their carers, and visitors.
The shortage of supported living options within the county has led to individuals being placed in out-of-area residential care or having to rely on aging parents for care, creating challenges when parental care is no longer feasible. To tackle this issue, B&NES appointed Arcadis to design a landscape-led development comprising 16 dwellings and a communal hub. This initiative specifically caters for individuals with autism, learning disabilities, and mobility issues, introducing much-needed supported housing accommodations in Bath and North East Somerset.
Arcadis’s approach involved crafting a design that not only considers the unique requirements of residents and their carers but also harmonises with the local environment’s characteristics, including ecology, topography, and site constraints. By leveraging previous experience in designing for neurodiverse conditions and utilising innovative research expertise, Arcadis developed three distinctive house types that offer flexibility for customisation based on individual needs, as well as adaptability for future care requirements.
The proposed site plan features two clusters designed around inward-facing courtyard communal landscaping, fostering a sense of security and cohesion among the residents. The arrangement of building footprints along contours enables easy access via level paths, with connections between levels facilitated through terraced courtyard spaces. With a mix of one-bed bungalows, split-level two-bed, and three-bed dwellings, the design accommodates 16 residents while providing overnight accommodation and office space for carers.
Engagement with specialist services played a pivotal role in shaping the design of Englishcombe Lane, ensuring that the development meets the transformative needs of its future residents. Beyond residential units, the site will feature a communal hub catering to resident activities and accommodating approximately 20 people, enhancing community interaction and support.
Taking inspiration from Bath’s UNESCO World Heritage setting, the design of Englishcombe Lane reflects the layered landscape of the region, incorporating elements of Bath stone architecture, green spaces, and natural surroundings. By adhering to principles of building with nature, the development harmonises with its ecology, hydrology, and geology, emphasising sustainability, low-carbon and long-term maintenance while respecting the site’s intrinsic characteristics.
In conclusion, Englishcombe Lane symbolises a transformative opportunity to address the scarcity of supported housing provisions through a holistic, nature-friendly design approach that prioritises resident well-being and independence. By creating a nurturing and sustainable living environment, this scheme is poised to positively impact the lives of its residents, enabling them to thrive independently with suitable care and support in their own homes.
