Fritwell rural housing
This project was designed in response to the need for low cost affordable homes in the Fritwell area near Banbury. Situated on land owned by Fritwell CE Primary School Trust, the development funded much-needed extension to the school itself. The scheme was devised as sympathetic to the character of the surrounding village houses, using established typologies and materials, and with a total of 15 new two-bedroom dwellings spread across 2 sites. Understanding the site’s rural context, the scheme was created with proportions and layout of the houses relating to the short terraces typical of the village, and low roof lines were used to minimise their impact. Local materials were employed, such as light coloured stone and masonry construction for the walls, and slategrey concrete tiles on all roofs. Light coloured shared surfaces and paving are used throughout the access routes to reduce the development’s visual impact and create a more private, rural character in keeping with its location. The scheme aims to increase safety in the public realm, and the houses all face onto and have clear views of the street. A clearly defined treatment of public and private space helps ensure security for private gardens.