Challenge
Our client owned a small post-war house on a 500 sqm plot, designated as 'urban open space' despite appearing as a typical suburban property. The house was poky and uncomfortable, and the client wanted to replace it with two modern, decent-sized homes. However, Bromley Council had previously rejected an application on the site, treating the land as if it needed protection.
Approach
We designed a pair of semi-detached houses set at a right angle to the street, maintaining a similar depth to the existing house and placing most of the new built-up area away from the street. The net reduction in undeveloped space was 24 sqm. We also invested heavily in landscaping, adding new trees, bushes, and rain gardens to enhance biodiversity on the property.
Solution
Despite the thoughtful design and landscaping improvements, the council initially refused planning permission. However, on appeal, the planning inspector found that the benefits of the two well-designed homes outweighed any harm to the urban open space, and granted permission. This decision highlighted the quality of our application and the potential for justified development in restricted areas.