Hedgehog

The houses were designed in close consultation with the group and individuals; developed to enjoy the natural advantages of the site, with generous windows and natural light, changes in level, conservatories, balconies and verandahs. No two houses are the same, some wanted open plan living/dining/kitchens off a conservatory, whilst others wanted their living areas upstairs in order to maximise their enjoyment of views down the valley towards the sea.

The homes were then built by the residents over a two year period, supporting each other to complete their homes. The self builders benefit from the low rents, the low energy bills, individually designed houses and the community that they have created for themselves.

Built to a high ecological specification they have 450mm recycled cellulose insulation under the grass roofs, which produces space heating bills of under £50 / year. British grown larch and douglas fir was used for cladding, for verandahs and for decking, with as little chemical timber treatment used as possible. They are finished with 'organic' non-petrochemical paints, stains and waxes.

At Hedgehog, the houses are set slightly into the hillside above Bevendean overlooking the roofs of the houses below towards the sea, and have grass roofs to minimise their impact when viewed form the other side of the valley. They all have balconies which reap the benefits of the South facing view and sunshine.