Pioneering architecture firm builds 78 pocket-sized affordable homes in Barking

A new residential building in Barking has recently been completed by Reed Watts Architects, providing 78 pocket-sized affordable homes. The site, which was previously home to a series of prefabricated houses built as part of the post-war temporary homes programme, had been left isolated and without a clear purpose after their demolition in the 1970s. Reed Watts felt it was important to re-establish connections across the site, resulting in the creation of a new pedestrian route that defines space for shared gardens, public open spaces, and parking spaces for disabled residents.

The four and six-storey blocks of the building sit to the north and south of the new route respectively, arranged in two blocks with expressed vertical circulation. This creates a dramatic new edge to Barking town centre, marking the transition from the established residential neighbourhood to the east to the more open landscape of the River Roding to the west. Each of the blocks is accessed through its own walled garden, featuring meadow planting in place of formal lawns, areas for residents to socialise together, dedicated seating areas, and raised allotment beds.

Additionally, a shared garden room is provided within the buildings where residents can come together for events, group workshops, and as an alternative to their own living rooms if working from home. The construction methods and façade materials of the building evolved during the process, with light-gauge steel frame panels and an insulated render with brick slips being used. The form and massing of the buildings were established early in the project, resulting in a residential building that not only provides affordable housing but also reconnects the site and its residents to the surrounding area.

Reed Watts Architects has successfully delivered its largest project to date, a residential building comprising of 78 one-bedroom homes in the bustling area of Barking. The design team collaborated closely with planners, contractors, and clients to create affordable pocket-sized homes for local first-time buyers.

One of the challenges faced by the architects was to blend the building seamlessly into the surrounding neighbourhood. The team worked with a brick slip manufacturer to develop a colour palette that resonated with the warm terracotta and buff tones of neighbouring buildings. The resulting subtle changes in colour across the façade break up the massing and creates a sense of texture, even though the façade itself is relatively sheer.

The stair cores are light and airy spaces that offer a striking contrast to the solidity of the elevations. Cast-glass cladding with openings allows residents a direct visual connection to the gardens with panoramic views across London from the higher levels. The use of cast-glass cladding was a conscious decision by the architects to provide a contemporary feel to the building.

The building provides 78 one-bedroom homes, including two wheelchair-adaptable homes, making it an inclusive and accessible residential building. The success of the project is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the design team, planners, contractors, and clients.

Reed Watts Architects has once again demonstrated their expertise in designing innovative, affordable residential buildings that enhance the built environment and provide comfortable living spaces for local communities.