We’re pleased to share that our design for a new neighbourhood quarter at Benfield Valley has been shortlisted for a Housing Design Award. 

Proposals for Benfield Valley will create a sensitive new neighbourhood quarter in Hove, forming a distinctive gateway to the South Downs National Park while protecting, enhancing and improving access to the surrounding green landscape.

The design establishes a clear settlement edge that defines the neighbourhood while framing views in the skyline to the wider landscape beyond. Development is consolidated on private land to the north, preserving community parkland to the south, improving accessibility and minimising environmental impact.

The neighbourhood will provide 101 new homes, including 40% affordable housing, arranged to create a strong and recognisable identity inspired by the landscape, heritage of East Sussex. A new community and educational hub and café within the Grade II listed Benfield Barn will anchor the neighbourhood, alongside workshops set within the footprint of historic farm structures in the Benfield Barn Conservation Area.

Shared surface streets prioritise pedestrians and encourage neighbourly interaction, while narrower street widths create a sense of enclosure. Parking is primarily provided incurtilage within each plot, reducing the visual impact of cars and reinforcing a people-focused environment.

A network of communal spaces fosters a strong sense of community. Orchards and productive gardens reference the site’s horticultural heritage, while a central square provides a focal meeting place complete with community room at the heart of the new neighbourhood quarter.

Dual-fronted courtyard homes achieve a density of 53 dph, with over 60% family houses. Materials draw on East Sussex vernacular traditions, including hung tiles and prefabricated bungaroosh panels, reinforcing a strong sense of place.