Place specific
Patient developments are instinctively sensitive to their contexts, with a deep-rooted respect for local architecture. To create a strong sense of place, Hugh Petter Director at ADAM Architecture designs places that feel like they belong to their context and argues that it makes schemes more popular. “A scheme in Cornwall should be different to a scheme in Oxfordshire. This is not only because the local vernacular is historically tuned to the local environment and building materials, but because it gives the place an identity that resonates with surrounding buildings.”
To ensure that the local vernacular is embedded in the new development, site-specific pattern books are produced to define street character, building typologies, materiality, etc, and provide a rich design inspiration for new buildings and squares that resonate with the old. The spaces between the buildings are where community spirit and life are nurtured; so often considered utilitarian in nature, movement networks should be conceived as social places in their own right — platforms for serendipitous exchange and chance encounters between neighbours.
"A scheme in Cornwall should be different to a scheme in Oxfordshire. This is not only because the local vernacular is historically tuned to the local environment and building materials, but because it gives the place an identity that resonates with surrounding buildings."
Hugh Petter, Director at ADAM Architecture
“Allowing a local tradition to evolve and remain relevant gives people a sense of pride and identity about where they live. That doesn’t negate a modern interpretation. Good placemaking is less dependent on style, and more driven by materials, details, the urban form and the flexibility to respond to modern needs.” Robbie Kerr, Director at ADAM Architecture.
Celebrating local heritage can boost civic pride amongst residents. This goes beyond aesthetics, as a locally inspired design using locally sourced materials and craftmanship supports the economy through partnerships with businesses in the area. This creates new opportunities for people. Everywhere is different and offers up different opportunities. Hugh explains: “On some sites, estate grown timber is used to construct or clad timber frame houses. In Cornwall, we use concrete blocks from local China waste clay — a waste product with a very low carbon footprint and a high performance. This creates a virtuous circle, where you can work in partnership with local people and local businesses. This means that those most affected by development also feel the economic warmth that comes from it.”
The added benefit is transparency in the supply chain, with reduced transport emissions and climate impacts. At Nansledan, The Duchy of Cornwall has built relationships with local supply chains on the back of a 25-30-year build programme. This ensured that the architecture was in keeping with the surroundings while providing long-term security for the quarry and its workers3, giving them the confidence to invest in staff and machinery that has reduced the cost of extraction, manufacture and supply, for everyone’s benefit.
