TADW Architects - a unique double

George Noworyta, director of TADW Architects, discusses the varied ambit of TADW's experience-based social housing and regeneration developments.

The two schemes by TADW Architects that have been awarded Building for Life Standards could not be more different. One involves the restoration of historic buildings in Stockport's market area, whilst the other is a modern interpretation of Oldham's terraced streetscape. Despite the contrasts, there are similarities in our approach to their design, which has contributed to the regeneration of their respective neighbourhoods.

A driving force

As a practice, we have an understanding of social housing and regeneration which is based on experience. We have an open and approachable commitment to our work and respond positively to challenges, which are balanced by the dual motivation of good design and end-user satisfaction. The underlying force which drives our work is a passionate commitment to create good architecture.

Learning from the past

Mealhouse Brow has been a unique project for us. There has been no opportunity for standardisation here. Each flat has been individually designed to take into consideration its location within existing buildings and topography, its relationship with its neighbours, and its interaction with the external courtyard spaces.

As our understanding of the site increased, so the design developed. We discovered 15th century structures, hitherto unknown gaol cells, underground chambers and features which had an effect on the layout and integrity of the site. Many have contributed positively to the revised design and are now considered valued features.

There is a blend of old and new. The introduction of new technology to complement and protect the old, all contained within the traditional repair and restoration of historic fabric. We have paid attention to detail. Where possible, we have salvaged and reused original features and materials in the continued spirit of recycling, which the original 18th century adaptations had inspired.

A community success

At Selwyn Street, we introduced traditional elements but with a modern interpretation of the terraced streetscape. The sophisticated requirements of the residents enabled us to create a modern solution which would lift the spirit of the area and express architecture true to its age.

Our design process involved exploration of various ideas and options with client and community involvement. The scheme developed to the terraced solution which achieved high density and a form appropriate to the existing vernacular. This allowed us to incorporate car ports within the terrace, larger windows for solar gain and the introduction of solar panels which determined the monopitch roofscape in such a striking way.

Although the scheme silhouette expresses the rhythm of the street, the facades are modulated to give variety of depth and shadow which changes throughout the day.

The real proof

We have been delighted by the overwhelming response to both schemes. The ultimate success, however, will be known only in the future - if residents' feedback remains as enthusiastic as it is now.

The challenges ahead

We need to address space requirements for the future, which due to financial restraints are often minimal. We need to encourage people to live ethically and they need room to do this - to have the option to work from home; to use and therefore safely store (and recharge) their electric cars and bicycles; and to have adequate space for recycling, composting and growing produce. We also need to consider design for future climatic changes and more sustainable energy consumption.

And finally

A few thoughts for everybody, who, like us, is committed to creating great places to live:

• involve yourselves with local communities
• be innovative
• understand the historic context of the site and environs
• most importantly, go with the urban grain.

George Noworyta is a director of TADW Architects.