Fraser Brown MacKenna Architects's development at Pembury Circus has been awarded the title "Best Mixed Use Development" at the LEAF Awards 2016. The project, a development for Peabody and Bellway Homes, provides 268 high quality new homes (50% affordable, 50% for private sale) as well as shops, offices, a gym, nursery and a large community center.
Pembury Circus is Hackney's largest car-free development and offers a new play area for children in a private courtyard as well as dedicated housing for older residents, who have access to a roof garden with stunning views across the City.
"It has been fantastic to be part of a mixed-use project that has created such a significant community benefit, both through the large proportion of affordable housing and the fantastic new community center, as well as by making a positive contribution to the townscape," commented Simon Fraser, Director of Fraser Brown MacKenna Architects. "Intelligent design has maximized the benefits of the mixed-tenure scheme for all residents. We convinced decision-makers that a car-free development was appropriate; improving pedestrian links through the site and away from the busy road intersection was an important part of our design concept. We have turned a redundant part of the Pembury Estate into what has become a vibrant and exciting place to be."
Photography: Tim Crocker