3 sustainable self-build homes approved

Planning approval for 3 new sustainable homes in Ludlow.

KODA architects have successfully secured planning approval for 3 new sustainable self-build homes in Ludlow. The site is combines an underused hidden parcel of land with part of a large formal garden within the Town.  Sustainable design was at the forefront of the brief and the homes are positioned to take full advantage of the southern aspect whilst also affording views of St. Lawrence’s Church.

The scheme develops an underutilised urban site to provide high quality housing utilising energy efficiency measures. They are built from highly insulated and sustainable materials. The dwellings are designed with large, glazed wall areas to the south and west elevations benefiting from passive solar gain. The first floor areas include recessed balconies featuring long roof overhangs protecting the bedrooms from excessive solar gain in the summer months. This still allows sunlight to reach the depths of rooms promoting thermal gain in the winter when the sun is lower in the sky. Internal air quality and comfort is supplemented by automated mechanical ventilation and heat recovery, MVHR. 

The buildings include standing seam metal mono pitch roofs which reduce impact on the neighbouring amenity but also being orientated to the south and west present an ideal location for the arrays of photovoltaic and solar thermal panels producing heat and power. Rainwater is collected and harvested on site for re-use in the buildings and gardens.

The development resists temptation to optimise numbers in preference the new high quality homes are sited within generous individual plots and will be sold to independant self-builders. 

For more information, check out our Portfolio Pages or instagram for this and other projects.

Bastion Mews Planning Application Approved!

KODA Architects scheme at Bastion Mews approved.

KODA architects are delighted to announce that planning permission has been granted for an exciting new mixed use redevelopment at Bastion Mews in Hereford City Centre. The application was unanimously supported by the planning committee members, many praising the imaginative design approach. Success was achieved by working closely with the applicant and TT Planning. The proposal provides a landmark independent quarter comprising offices and shops,  a new restaurant as well as accommodation that work in conjunction with the existing businesses.

KODA architects have perused an industrial visual underpinning to develop a mixed use scheme over the expansive site reusing shipping containers as a base. The shipping containers are used in varying creative configurations including  vertically stacked incorporating stairways to the upper levels. The designs are also supplemented by balconies formed with patinaed steel and oak loures that combine planting to softening the aesthetic. The proposal integrates inherent flexibility that allows the buildings to be adapted as the site evolves. 

Bastion Mews in Hereford City Centre is encircled by the Hereford City Wall which was constructed in the 13th Century by Royal decree. The site, Bastion Mews, is named after the defensive bastion which once stood at the site and protected nearby City gate. KODA Architects acted as Heritage Consultant fully exploring the significance of the site and surrounding location.  The site has had many uses in a vibrant history with the latest use being home to the Shack Revolution and Bastion Street Feast. Quickly gaining a local reputation for great quality street food, entertainment and a buzzing atmosphere the team at Shack Events have made it a huge success for the City. 

Bastion Mews Elevation

Part of the underpinning philosophy of the sites redevelopment is a diversity of uses and users. This multi use ideal elaborates on the ethos of the highly successful Shack Revolution and Bastion Street Feast where different street food vendors pitch up their stalls and sell high quality food in a sharing and collaborative atmosphere. The urban event space also hosts weddings as well as highly successful, comedy nights, musical acts, DJ’s and of course the annual Oktoberfest!  The masterplan calls for a mixture of live work units as well as recreational areas and amenity space in this highly sustainable location on the edge of the City Center. Complimenting the existing uses of the site, the new proposals are testament to 21st Century design, innovative and flexible to allow them to be easily changed should the site need to in the future

For more information, check out our Portfolio Pages for this and other projects.