West Sussex Eco Development

With our partners at Westbourne Commercial, we purchased the Earnley Butterfly Farm, a derelict four-acre site near the Sussex coast as a development project. The attraction had suffered long term decline and reduced footfall in the preceding years and fell into severe disrepair. Against the odds and with overwhelming community support, we were able to achieve planning for a low-density sustainable development of five family homes.

Our design approach led to a high-quality contemporary scheme designed to provide an example of best practice to deliver energy efficient sustainable homes on an in-fill site. The properties were modelled on a modern interpretation of traditional rural buildings – designed to reflect the form of traditional barns, stables and outbuildings found in the local area. Each home has a dedicated work from home space, and outdoor areas for healthy living and growing.

Our sustainable approach was the key driver to proposed reuse of the brownfield site and we aimed to ensure environmental responsibility and resource efficiency throughout the life cycle of the buildings. Sustainable design was achieved through a ‘whole building design approach’. Our designs also included rainwater harvesting, water conservation and flood mitigation strategies, and biodiversity positive gardens where wildlife is encouraged to thrive.

As an integral part of our design process, we spent considerable effort consulting with the parish and neighbours. This exemplar project is an opportunity to educate local residents and contractors on sustainability and new ways of construction and development. It will not only improve the local community but serve as a model for future sympathetic development in our area.