THE PROJECT

This new build concrete house project demonstrates how contemporary architecture can transform a constrained urban site into a distinctive modern home.

Designed as part of a wider redevelopment of properties on Martin Way, the project explores the architectural potential of exposed concrete construction within a compact residential setting. The result is a striking one-bedroom dwelling that combines brutalist architectural principles, efficient spatial planning and durable materials.

Rather than following conventional suburban housing design, the project embraces a bold architectural language defined by raw materials, simple geometry and strong structural expression.

Backfill Development on a Constrained Site

The new build concrete house sits at the rear of No. 358 Martin Way and was created as part of a carefully planned backfill development.

The site was subdivided to create an opportunity for a compact dwelling that could sit comfortably within the existing urban fabric while making efficient use of previously underutilised land.

Access to the property was a key design challenge. A new undercroft pathway was introduced through the converted flats, leading to a discreet entrance concealed within a two-storey side extension. This landscaped route creates a clear and private approach to the house while maintaining separation from the surrounding properties.

Despite the constrained site, the design successfully delivers a fully functional one-bedroom home with a strong architectural identity.

Brutalist Architectural Design

The architectural concept for this new build concrete house draws inspiration from brutalist architecture, where structure and material become the defining visual elements.

Key characteristics of the design include:

Folded Concrete Formwork

The structure uses folded concrete formwork that provides both the building’s structural stability and its distinctive architectural character. This approach also contributes to improved thermal performance and durability.

Green Roof Integration

A planted roof softens the strong concrete geometry while improving environmental performance and visual integration with the surrounding garden environment.

Sunken Garden

A lowered rear garden creates privacy and enhances the spatial experience of the house, forming a sheltered outdoor space connected directly to the interior living area.

These design elements demonstrate how brutalist architecture can be adapted for residential use while maintaining a strong architectural presence.

Interior Materials and Spatial Character

The interior of the new build concrete house reflects the same architectural principles as the exterior, using a restrained palette of materials to create a cohesive living environment.

Key interior features include:

Concrete Living Space

A sunken concrete seating area forms the centrepiece of the living space, reinforcing the structural language of the building.

Oak Timber Finishes

Oak flooring and wall cladding introduce warmth and contrast to the concrete structure, balancing the industrial material palette with natural textures.

Minimal Detailing

The interior design avoids unnecessary decoration, allowing the structure and materials to define the spatial character of the house.

The result is a calm and carefully composed interior that emphasises material quality and spatial clarity.

Planning and Sustainability

Obtaining planning permission for this new build concrete house required careful consideration of the surrounding residential context.

The design demonstrated how a compact contemporary building could sit comfortably within the established urban environment while delivering a distinctive architectural identity.

Sustainable design principles were incorporated throughout the project. Features such as the green roof, thermally efficient concrete construction and generous glazing help improve energy performance and natural light within the building.

Large floor-to-ceiling windows connect the interior with the garden, creating a bright living environment while reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

A Distinctive Architectural Approach

This new build concrete house highlights the diversity of architectural styles that can be explored within residential projects.

While many houses follow conventional design approaches, this project demonstrates how contemporary architectural ideas such as brutalism can be adapted to create highly individual homes.

By combining strong architectural form, durable materials and careful spatial planning, the project delivers a home that is both visually striking and highly functional.

Development Outcome

The house formed part of a wider redevelopment of the Martin Way properties, which included extensive renovations, extensions and the creation of seven new dwellings.

The successful completion and sale of all properties within the development reflects the value that carefully considered architectural design can bring to residential projects.

This new-build-concrete-house stands as a distinctive example of how innovative architecture can transform underused urban land into high-quality housing.

Considering a New Build Project?

Designing a new home requires careful planning, strong architectural ideas and technically robust construction detailing.

If you are exploring a new build concrete house project, contemporary house design or residential development, our architecture team can guide you through the design, planning and construction process

Explore more of our residential architecture projects or our architectural services in London.