The Willows

This development in the picturesque village of Banham, South Norfolk, involved the creation of 29 new properties on a 1.6-hectare site, comprising a mix of 3 and 4-bedroom open market dwellings alongside 3 social housing units. Situated next to the renowned Banham Zoo and within walking distance of local amenities, the development offers a unique opportunity to blend rural living with easy access to village services and facilities. Our vision for the project was to create a development that blends in with the surrounding natural environment while offering modern homes with a strong sense of community and connection to the village.

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​Design approach
Our design for this rural development was inspired by the need to integrate both the local architectural style and the natural beauty of Banham. The homes were designed with contemporary living in mind, but with careful consideration of the traditional elements and materials characteristic of the area. We ensured that the development was sensitive to the local context, embracing its surroundings while providing a high standard of comfort for the residents.

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A key design feature was the orientation of all homes towards the southwest, ensuring they benefit from natural light throughout the day. This also maximized energy efficiency, reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating. The overall layout was designed to foster a sense of community, with open spaces and recreational areas designed to enhance social interaction between residents.

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Integration with the natural environment
Our approach also prioritised the integration of natural features, aiming to create a sustainable environment that worked in harmony with the surrounding landscape. The development included several ecological enhancements, such as:

 

Newt corridor: A dedicated wildlife corridor was created to support the local population of newts, ensuring the preservation of this species and encouraging biodiversity across the site.

 

Wildflower areas and tree planting: A series of wildflower areas were planted to attract local wildlife, while new trees were added to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the development and provide a legacy for future generations.

 

Ecology habitat upgrade: We worked to enhance the existing ecology habitats, improving biodiversity across the site while maintaining the balance between development and environmental preservation.

 

Regenerated pond: The regeneration of the existing pond provided a unique natural feature within the development, contributing to local wildlife and enhancing the overall green space.

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Additionally, a public play area was incorporated into the site, offering a safe and engaging recreational space for families. This amenity plays an important role in enhancing the sense of community, encouraging social interaction, and promoting healthy outdoor living for children and adults alike.

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Challenges and solutions
As with any development, several challenges had to be addressed to ensure the success of this project:

 

Surface and foul water issues: One of the primary challenges involved managing surface and foul water drainage. The team worked closely with specialists to design an efficient drainage system that would prevent flooding and ensure that water was managed sustainably across the site.

 

Grounding overhead power cables: To improve the visual appearance of the development and maintain a clean and rural aesthetic, we successfully negotiated the grounding of overhead power cables. This was a critical step in ensuring the project adhered to local planning guidelines and maintained the village’s rural character.

 

Parish council collaboration: Throughout the design and planning process, we worked closely with the Parish Council to ensure that the development was in line with the village’s needs and aspirations. We listened to local concerns and incorporated feedback into the final design, including the addition of the public play area and other community-focused elements.

 

Sustainability and community impact
This development exemplifies how architecture can seamlessly integrate with its rural surroundings while providing high-quality, sustainable housing options for both private and public needs. The thoughtful incorporation of green spaces, wildlife corridors, and the upgrade of local habitats has ensured that the development not only meets the needs of its residents but also contributes positively to the local environment.

 

The inclusion of new public amenities, such as the play area, further strengthens the sense of community within the development, offering residents the chance to connect with their neighbours and enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, the attention to energy-efficient home design and environmental sustainability ensures that this development will provide long-term benefits for both the community and the natural landscape.

 

Conclusion
The Banham development is a prime example of how sensitive, well-planned architecture can enrich a rural community while maintaining respect for the surrounding environment. By blending modern design with traditional materials, and integrating ecological and community-focused elements, we’ve created a space that offers both comfortable living and a strong sense of belonging. This project demonstrates how rural developments can foster a thriving, sustainable community that connects with the past while looking to the future.