This development for the Peabody Trust provides shelter, care and support for single “rough sleepers”, most of whom have problems with alcohol or drugs. It comprises a day centre, a 15 bed hostel and 12 one bed flats providing short-term “move on” accommodation.

The combination of three separate facilities on one site reduced staffing requirements while providing continuity of care. With services including healthcare, counselling and training, the scheme was designed to help residents learn the skills required for independent living elsewhere in the community. The scheme incorporates both passive and active security for staff, clients and local residents.

Part funded by the West London Rough Sleepers’ Initiative and the Charities Lottery Fund, the scheme was developed in close consultation with the agencies who care for this challenging client group. The design process included presentations to planning officers, local residents and typical clients to ensure that what was a potentially controversial development met the needs and aspirations of its users and minimised disruption to its neighbours.

Client: Peabody Trust

Construction value: £2,750,000

Completion: April 2001

“The close collaboration between the architect and the management organisation has resulted in a building that responds to the needs of the clients and creates an environment of composed comfort. The building has been created with real care: there are no ill thought details, no poorly considered spaces. This building should be an example for all buildings that deal with disadvantaged members of society.”
Civic Trust Awards 2002 - Judges comments
For Market Lane, London

“There is a quiet assurance to this housing, and a sense of respect stemming from the quality of fittings and finishes, which demonstrably assists in the rebuilding of dignity, and lends a new and positive meaning to the phrase ‘secure by design’.”
Housing Design Awards 2002 - Judges comments
For Market Lane, London