Architecture is about finding creative solutions to improve people’s quality of life

An architect who can thrive developing imaginative designs for low-cost housing as well as producing designs for the very top end of the market, is an important asset for today’s society.

When considering low-cost housing, beautiful and clever architectural designs might not immediately spring to mind, but perhaps they should. Low-cost housing can be wonderful, and if careful thought and planning has gone into the design process, it can make for incredible places to live. Examples of this type of clever, low-cost housing can be seen in increasing numbers, and we are proud to fully embrace the challenges that come with making this into a reality. At NJ Architects, innovative ways to cut cost without compromising on quality are always investigated thoroughly to ensure the design is exactly what’s needed for the end user.

A great example of our work when it comes to clever designs for low-cost housing, is the case of the Manning Road apartments in Felixstowe. Our team successfully secured planning consent for this infill development of seven apartments and an HMO (House of Multiple Occupation) before getting to work on this fantastic project.

The Manning Road brief was clear, to maximise the site value but preserve the historic integrity of the street scene. We took the opportunity to design a building that acted as a wonderful focal point on the junction of the two roads.?At every stage of the process, the team kept the striking 1930’s style apparent in mind. This interesting architectural style can be clearly seen in adjacent buildings, and was incorporated into the designs of Manning Road in a modern idiom, which helps to unify the existing vernaculars of the street, however behind the fa?ade, the plans show simple flat layouts maximising space.