Purford Green, Harlow

Contemporary Residential Development

Oakview Drive, situated in Brays Grove in Harlow, is a contemporary residential development of 35 homes, including 29 for open-market, three for shared ownership and three for affordable rent, designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing neighbourhood. Feature brickwork detailing, refined building forms, cropped eaves, and flush verges have been carefully curated to respond to the prevailing character of Harlow New Town.

The project prioritises sustainability with a fabric-first approach, surpassing regulatory insulation standards; each dwelling boasts a large number of solar photovoltaic panels and is powered by an air source heat pump with underfloor heating, with all homes achieving an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) 'A' rating. The design also includes multiple public open spaces, prioritises the retention of existing mature oak trees and includes a link to an existing footpath, which will be refurbished with new surfacing and lighting. All dwellings are ‘Accessible and Adaptable’ with five designed for wheelchair users.

Notably, design challenges such as ensuring privacy for the neighbouring homes and primary school were met by adopting a thoughtful dwelling typology with no overlooking windows, and utilising roof terraces over carports to enhance amenity space provision while respecting the sensitivity of boundaries. This project not only aligns with the architectural character of Harlow but also stands as a model for sustainable residential development on a vacant brownfield site, contributing to a more accessible, connected, and inclusive community within Brays Grove.

Client: Essex Housing
Contractor: Marfleet & Blyth
Photographs: Marfleet & Blyth
CGI Images: Shout Design