Influence Landscape Planning and Design’s Post

An application we submitted to retrofit and extend Aylmer House in Harlow town centre has been given a resolution to grant, subject to a S106 Agreement.   29 new one, two and three bed apartments will be created, following the recommendation for approval of plans for a two-storey upwards extension and conversion of the building’s second and third floors from commercial to residential. An existing Wetherspoons public house, at ground level, will be retained.   “Harlow town centre is undergoing an exciting transformation and we’re working closely with Harlow Council to help achieve their vision for a more residential-led townscape and, in particular, deliver more new homes within the town centre itself,” comments our associate planner, Hannah Fawdon MRTPI. “This includes redeveloping commercial premises as residential, to mitigate against the continued problem of vacant office space.   “Aylmer House occupies a prominent position within the town centre boundary and was identified within the recently adopted North Development Brief as having the potential for new residential apartments and increased height. It was therefore a credible candidate for redevelopment and we were pleased to bring forward this application on behalf of our client, Martorana Properties.” adds Hannah.   The newly approved proposal will see the height of the building increase to six storeys and has been designed with architectural detailing to match the neighbourhood, including a contemporary sawtooth roof and green cladding.   This design approach is welcomed in the planning officer’s report, which states “the proposed development is considered to significantly improve the appearance of the existing building through the use of contemporary architectural design and materials. It is also positive that it would repurpose and extend an existing building to prevent its demolition, presenting a much more sustainable solution.”   The report further praises the wider benefits the redevelopment will bring, particularly the delivery of new homes within a sustainable location, the introduction of a green roof to enable a 100% biodiversity net gain, adequate noise controls to minimise impacts to residential properties arising from the ground floor pub, provision of carbon reduction measures, and it being car-free. Image credit: Ackroyd Lowrie #planningapproval #planningpermission #planningnews #proudofplanning #resolutiontogrant #upwardsextension #retrofit #reuse #refurbish #regeneration #redevelopment #biodiversity #biodiversityawareness #useclasses #planningadvice #harlow #essex

𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆: 𝗖𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗩𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 At Kunz Raubenheimer Architects, we are committed to unlocking the full potential of every piece of land, transforming it into more than just a feasible project, but a thriving community that balances high density with exceptional livability and maximum return on investment. Our revised Concept Site Development Plan for a new senior living community in Pretoria is a perfect example. This new senior living community features 516 units, including 2 and 3-bedroom single-story houses, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom rowhouses, and 1 and 2-bedroom apartments. By breaking the development into smaller, unique "villages," each with its distinct character, we’ve created vibrant neighborhoods that feel like individual communities within the larger estate. Architectural elements vary across the villages, incorporating diverse materials such as face brick, roof colors, aluminum finishes, painted plaster, privacy screens, wayfinding elements, and street-facing feature walls. These thoughtful variations add layers of character and identity to each pocket of the estate. Walkable Neighborhoods and Green Spaces Our master plan prioritizes walkability and connectivity, weaving open green spaces, parks, and communal herb gardens throughout the estate. A network of pedestrian trails and walking routes links these green spaces to the Clubhouse and Care Center, encouraging an active lifestyle and fostering a strong sense of community. This design approach ensures residents enjoy the beauty of nature and the warmth of village-like living within an urban environment. Ecologically Sensitive Green Belt Surrounding the estate is an ecologically sensitive green belt that provides a serene setting for all perimeter units. The Clearview fencing offers unobstructed views into this green belt, while a series of thoughtfully integrated amenities like a sculpture garden, bird hides, and hiking trails encourage residents to connect with the natural surroundings and enjoy leisurely outdoor activities. Our design philosophy focuses on creating well-considered, liveable neighbourhoods within high-density developments, where every detail is crafted to enhance community, sustainability, and quality of life. Through our innovative approach, we help developers achieve both feasibility and a profound sense of place. #MasterplanMonday #UrbanDesign #CommunityLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #SeniorLivingCommunity #WalkableNeighborhoods #GreenSpaces #EcologicalDesign #UrbanPlanning #SustainableLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation #CommunityDevelopment #DesignForLife #KunzRaubenheimerArchitects

💭 Is gentle density the answer to our housing crisis in the suburbs? 💭 With the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) updates being announced this morning, we wondered if the Government might have read our blog on suburban developments. Our founding director Olly Bray shares how thoughtful, considered contemporary design can generate successful intensification or our suburbs. "By introducing medium-density developments, such as townhouses, low-rise apartment buildings, or courtyard-style housing, you can create a sense of community and improve walkability" We are looking forward to hearing the proposed updates for the NPPF this morning. What are you hoping to see in the revised NPPF? Let us know in the comments. #nppf #planning #urbandesign #housingdevelopment #residentialdesign #london #suburbs #RIBA #blogs #moderndesign #housing https://lnkd.in/g_zMtcru

$85 Million Fitzroy Project: Blending Heritage and Modernity..... Beulah planning to deliver more sustainable design outcomes with its latest proposal in Fitzroy, an $85M development planned for 430-434 George Street. Designed by Breathe Architecture, this eight-storey mixed-use project will feature 44 apartments and two retail spaces, with sustainability at its core. The fossil-fuel-free design includes rooftop solar, rainwater harvesting, a dedicated bicycle hub, EV charging stations, and a lush fern garden. A three-storey brick podium reflects Fitzroy’s heritage, blending seamlessly with the area’s Victorian and Edwardian streetscapes. A retained bluestone wall and laneway on Rose Street will create unique entry points for vehicles and cyclists. BEULAH’s vision for Fitzroy draws on its vibrant history and eclectic culture. With a focus on enhancing liveability and community, the project aims to honour the suburb’s character while delivering modern, sustainable living spaces. This addition complements Beulah’s growing portfolio of Melbourne projects, including Brunswick Established, The Wilds in Northcote, and its landmark STH BNK in Southbank. #BuildingTalks #SustainableDevelopment #MelbourneProperty

We're in the final stages of construction turning a council-owned disused garage plot in Bristol into affordable housing, using the innovative Gap House concept. Our Bristol Director Matt Cooper said: "The Gap House design is a thoughtful way to bring back to life disused urban spaces, & could contribute to addressing the housing crisis & improving local communities. Over Beard's 135-year history, we've been involved in many residential projects, but none quite like this. Working with factory-made panels & within the limits of a small site has presented challenges that the team has embraced. It's been exciting to apply the innovative new methods to create sustainable, contemporary & affordable homes in the city." Read more ➡️ https://lnkd.in/eHE6MbNg #beardconstruction #buildwithambition 📷 Image credit: BDP (Building Design Partnership Ltd)

Efficient land utilisation is a challenge for our industry, none more so in suburban and urban areas. People think London is densely populated, but in reality, it's not: there are 14,600 people per sq mile, compared to 52,000 in Paris or 41,000 in Barcelona. Our work largely involves advising rural and edge-of-settlement landowners, and planners defer to the context of place and local design vernacular much more than in urban areas. Take a look at this story in suburban Woking, however: Manhattan comes to Surrey. #housing #economy https://lnkd.in/eRtqeE7A

$85 Million Fitzroy Project: Blending Heritage and Modernity..... Beulah planning to deliver more sustainable design outcomes with its latest proposal in Fitzroy, an $85M development planned for 430-434 George Street. Designed by Breathe Architecture, this eight-storey mixed-use project will feature 44 apartments and two retail spaces, with sustainability at its core. The fossil-fuel-free design includes rooftop solar, rainwater harvesting, a dedicated bicycle hub, EV charging stations, and a lush fern garden. A three-storey brick podium reflects Fitzroy’s heritage, blending seamlessly with the area’s Victorian and Edwardian streetscapes. A retained bluestone wall and laneway on Rose Street will create unique entry points for vehicles and cyclists. BEULAH’s vision for Fitzroy draws on its vibrant history and eclectic culture. With a focus on enhancing liveability and community, the project aims to honour the suburb’s character while delivering modern, sustainable living spaces. This addition complements Beulah’s growing portfolio of Melbourne projects, including Brunswick Established, The Wilds in Northcote, and its landmark STH BNK in Southbank. #BuildingTalks #SustainableDevelopment #MelbourneProperty

Update of Stanhope's 1 Undershaft Tower Proposal: Earlier this month, it was assumed that the delayed 1 Undershaft development would at long last receive full planning permission after several tweaks and amendments. However the proposed public garden and viewing platform of the 74-storey 1 Undershaft tower has sparked controversy, with council members likening it to a "plastic spoon." The debate surrounding the tower reflects a clash between development aspirations and preserving public spaces. Stakeholders, including Lloyd's chairman and Historic England, expressed objections citing the loss of public space and potential impact on heritage assets, underlining the delicate balance between progress and conserving cultural heritage. Architect Eric Parry defended the design as an organic contrast to the nearby buildings, emphasising its uniqueness and functionality. However, public officials and critics questioned the relevance and inspiration behind the design, emphasising the importance of architectural coherence and contextual harmony in urban development projects. The revised plans are expected to undergo further scrutiny, indicating a thorough evaluation process to ensure alignment with heritage, public space, and design considerations. This analysis sheds light on the interplay between architectural innovation, public space preservation, community feedback, and regulatory processes in shaping urban landscapes, illustrating the complexities and considerations involved in high-profile construction projects like Stanhope's 1 Undershaft tower in the City of London. Tom Lowe #commercialrealestate #London #construction #development #1Undershaft City of London Corporation https://lnkd.in/eYtEp2Gr

Multi-generational family living is increasingly necessary. Yet many homeowners find their property isn’t quite fit for purpose, and are faced with the challenge of not knowing quite how to adapt their home within their budgets. That’s where we come in. One of the latest private residential projects we’ve completed here at Hawes Construction Group took a family’s three-bedroom home and modernised it completely – increasing its size, adding a separate annexe and garden office, and completing a loft conversion. We were personally recommended for the work and chosen above four other companies to complete the project alongside the architects. Despite an extensive scheme, budget constraints, Building Regulation-approval necessities and unexpected discoveries, the stunning renovation was finalised within a year to the family’s delight. You can find out more about the challenges we faced and see how we overcame them in our latest case studies. https://lnkd.in/gynfD6DF #PrivateResidence #ModernLiving #PropertyConversion #MultiGenerationalLiving 

Brooklyn Bridge Park's existence is nothing short of miraculous. Two decades ago, the waterfront below Brooklyn Heights was a desolate area of decaying wharves, but today it is an 85-acre civic masterpiece. This transformation is a testament to the power of imagination and dedication, primarily driven by MVVA, a team of landscape architects led by Michael Van Valkenburgh. They meticulously designed the park, turning abandoned concrete into lush hills, meadows, and wetlands. The park is a blend of various landscape styles, creating a unique urban edge that balances beauty and resilience against aggressive weather. Brooklyn Bridge Park is a vital part of New York City's waterfront revitalization, connecting neighborhoods and providing a continuous promenade from Atlantic Avenue to the George Washington Bridge. This green space not only offers recreational opportunities but also addresses environmental challenges, such as mitigating floods and surviving extreme weather events like Superstorm Sandy. Its success serves as a model for urban parks worldwide, demonstrating how cities can adapt to climate change while creating spaces of joy and beauty. Despite its urban setting, the park fosters a sense of intimacy through its diverse microhabitats and well-planned design. The park's history is marked by complex challenges, including dealing with the proximity of the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway and the need for private development to fund its maintenance. Today, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a vibrant public space, drawing millions of visitors each summer and embodying the dynamic spirit of New York City. The park's design incorporates recycled materials from New York's industrial past, linking its present leisure space with its historical roots. Unlike the isolated retreats of Central and Prospect Parks, Brooklyn Bridge Park actively engages with the city, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and urban vitality. It stands as a symbol of the city's ability to reinvent itself and create spaces that reflect both its history and its future. #BrooklynHeights #BrooklynBridgePark #UrbanRevitalization #LandscapeArchitecture #SustainableDesign #NYCWaterfront #PublicSpaces #ClimateResilience #UrbanParks #CommunitySpaces #NYCHistory #MVVA #UrbanPlanning #CityParks