Satish Jassal Architects has unveiled Rowan Court, a collection of red-brick social housing blocks located in the Seven Sisters area of north London. This development aims to “repair the frayed edges” of an existing 1970s housing estate, adding 46 much-needed apartments to the neighborhood.
Commissioned by Haringey Council, Rowan Court occupies a strip of leftover land between an existing housing estate and a railway line. The design is intended to provide a range of housing types, with a particular emphasis on larger families. Notably, four of the apartments are wheelchair-accessible, while four others are multi-generational maisonettes.
The project mirrors the zigzagging layout of the original estate. It is organized around an L-shaped apartment block, flanked by lower terrace blocks on either side. This arrangement creates a new courtyard and mews-style street that enhances the surrounding urban fabric.
Creating Community Spaces
The core concept of the design was to improve public space and offer sustainable housing that fosters inclusivity. According to Satish Jassal, the most significant contribution of Rowan Court is the creation of a new public square and mews street. This new space transforms a previously neglected area into a secure, vibrant environment for residents, both new and existing. As a result, the project is an important step in reviving the local community.
Rowan Court’s central block stands six storeys tall, containing 31 apartments. Each apartment has access to an external terrace, which provides views of communal outdoor areas. To the east and west of this block, maisonettes and townhouses complete the development, contributing to a partially enclosed green square.
The choice of hand-laid red brick aligns with local architectural traditions, ensuring durability and design flexibility. Additionally, semi-glazed white bricks were used to accentuate window frames and introduce horizontal bands to the facades. These design choices reflect local patterns and provide a modern touch while maintaining the development’s connection to the surrounding area.
Sustainability and Accessibility
In keeping with the council’s sustainability goals, Rowan Court is designed to be a predominantly car-free development. It includes 96 cycle spaces, promoting green transportation. Moreover, solar panels and air-source heat pumps are incorporated into the design, making the development energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
Rowan Court offers a sustainable, inclusive approach to housing in London. The design prioritizes community well-being while respecting the local architecture. With an emphasis on functionality, environmental responsibility, and public space enhancement, this development exemplifies Satish Jassal Architects’ commitment to creating spaces that benefit both the residents and the broader urban context.