Geograph - photograph every grid square

Written by Brian Robert Marshall

This development of 42 family homes was built on a brownfield site formerly used for storing caravans (as best I can judge from aerial photos). The development is famous for being fronted by the television presenter and developer Kevin McCloud. There has even been a television programme about the trials and tribulations that were gone through to bring the development to completion. It is a mix of rented and owner-occupied dwellings built around a small green area. Given that the development was only completed a year ago (in June 2011) it is not surprising that the green has yet to reach maturity. The trees that have been planted appear to be willows that should rapidly mature. Some of the materials used (the bike shelters for example appear to incorporate the use of galvanised metal) are unusual as is the use of gabion walls in a domestic setting but they serve to distinguish Howse Garden from more traditional developments of the same age. More on Haboakus’ website Link

Update 21 June 2012: The development has just won Kevin and his architects, Glenn Howells, an award from the RIBA. It puts the development in the running for the RIBA's top award, the Stirling Prize Link and Link