This contemporary new terrace continues pioneering development at New Islington, Manchester’s Millenium Community. Completed last year it was designed by architects de Metz Forbes Knight and developed by Manchester Methodist Housing Association (MMHA).
This followed a RIBA competition with a challenging brief where the residents wanted traditional housing (because they retained an identity with the area) while the client wanted design innovation and world class architecture. dMFK’s response to these apparently conflicting requirements became the main generator of the design.
Green roofs and four shades of brick are all part of this reinterpretation of the traditional terrace, designed to be interesting from every angle. The development, comprising 14 two and three-bed new homes and two single storey homes, has won several awards for architecture and community involvement.
The dramatic homes cost £100k to build, only slightly more than an average Great Places social house. Residents were consulted throughout – about everything from exterior brick colour to choosing their own kitchen - and took an active interest in the building work, attending site meetings.
Large windows let in lots of light, doors are set into side walls rather than facing the street, kitchens are placed centrally to reflect their status as the hub of the house, and intimate courtyards are included for chatting to neighbours. Iconic brick houses by German modernist architect Mies van de Rohe provided inspiration.
This is the first social housing development in the city to feature green roofs that will attract birds and insects. The sedum survives in 5cm of gravel, and needs a trim just twice a year. Benefits, aside from providing a wildlife haven, include keeping homes cooler in summer, and easing strain on drains by slowing the path of rainwater. Green roofs will be visible from taller apartment blocks, yet to be built, at New Islington.
