Agar Grove Phase 1c: A Standout Residential Project in London
Agar Grove Phase 1c is a remarkable regeneration project located in the London Borough of Camden, designed as part of a larger masterplan in collaboration with HawkinsBrown. This phase features two buildings—one by Mæ and the other by HawkinsBrown—delivering a total of 125 flats and maisonettes. These include one, two, and three-bedroom units, plus a three-bedroom wheelchair accessible maisonette, catering to social and intermediate rent as well as private sale. The buildings are crafted to Passivhaus standards, ensuring energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions by maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures year-round. This project not only revitalizes the area but also sets a new benchmark for sustainable urban housing.
Main Benefits and Key Highlights of Agar Grove Phase 1c
What makes Agar Grove Phase 1c truly stand out? Here are some key figures and facts:
- Winner of three awards at the British Homes Awards 2025, including Sustainable Development of the Year and Sustainable Project of the Year.
- Client London Borough of Camden awarded House Builder of the Year, highlighting the importance of publicly-led residential delivery.
- 125 high-quality homes including flats and maisonettes designed for social, intermediate rent, and private sale.
- Buildings designed and certified to Passivhaus standards, significantly reducing energy use for heating and cooling.
- Collaboration between Mæ and HawkinsBrown, blending architectural innovation and sustainability.
Noele Gordon House: A Milestone in Affordable Later Living
Noele Gordon House, designed for Populo Living, is a 100% affordable later living scheme located in East Ham, Newham. This project embraces HAPPI principles—Housing our Ageing Population: Panel for Innovation—to support independence, connection, and wellbeing for residents aged 55 and over. The development offers 75 homes with dual-aspect apartments, generous communal spaces, and a rooftop terrace. Notably, it includes a state-of-the-art NHS health centre on the ground floor, blending residential living with essential community services. Delivered in partnership with Newham Council, it marks the borough’s first fully affordable later living scheme, setting a new standard for inclusive, community-led housing.
Recognition and Awards for Noele Gordon House
Noele Gordon House has been making waves in the industry, shortlisted for several prestigious awards that celebrate excellence in housing:
- RICS Awards 2025 shortlist for Best Residential Development (winners announced 16th October).
- Inside Housing Development Awards 2025 shortlist for Best Supported Housing Development (announcement on 25th November).
- Housebuilder Awards 2025 shortlist for Best Retirement Scheme (results on 6th November).
- Winner of Best Retirement Scheme at the Housebuilder Awards 2025.
This recognition underscores the project’s innovative approach to later living and community integration.
Exploring the Architectural Philosophy of Mæ
Director Alex Ely’s upcoming talk for Docomomo UK dives deep into the fascinating interplay between modernism and tradition in Mæ’s work. Scheduled for April 2025, the discussion will explore how Mæ’s architecture draws inspiration from postwar social housing, Frederick Gibberd’s new town paradigms, and the humanist approaches of Alvar Aalto and Bruno Taut. The talk highlights how Mæ balances progress with heritage, forging a path that respects modernist roots while tackling today’s challenges—environmental sustainability, social equity, and cultural enrichment. It’s a compelling narrative of urban evolution that reveals architecture’s potential to be both innovative and socially responsible.
Educational Engagements: Shaping Future Architects
Alex Ely’s lecture at the Yale School of Architecture in September 2025, titled ‘Towards a Resilient Architecture,’ focuses on environmental design principles crucial for the 21st century. Targeted at MArch students, the lecture covers ecological health, indoor environmental quality, and carbon life cycles. It introduces key ecological theories, bioclimatic design strategies across different climates, and thermal comfort standards. Students also explore scientific principles governing thermal, luminous, and acoustic environments in buildings. This educational engagement reflects Mæ’s commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering resilience in architectural design.
Project Impact: Aligning with Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – through inclusive, affordable housing and community integration.
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – via integrated health facilities like the NHS centre in Noele Gordon House.
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – by adhering to Passivhaus standards and reducing energy consumption.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – through sustainable design reducing carbon emissions and promoting resilience.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – by delivering affordable housing options for diverse populations.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Urban Design with Mæ
Mæ continues to push boundaries in architecture and urban design, blending sustainability with social responsibility. Their projects, like Agar Grove Phase 1c and Noele Gordon House, demonstrate a commitment to creating vibrant, inclusive communities that respect both heritage and the environment. With ongoing recognition and educational contributions, Mæ is shaping the future of housing in London and beyond—one thoughtful, innovative project at a time.
