Gordon Murray and Alan Dunlop architects are happy to confirm that they have successfully gained planning permission for a social housing development at Telford Road, Edinburgh. Their client is Manor Estates Housing Association and the scheme comprises of 20 units. 'It will be our first housing project in the city" says Project Director Maggie Barlow "and although at the moment it is quite small, we believe it is significant. It has certainly been well designed".

Their designs create shared terraced gardens for residents at first floor level and interesting internal spaces. Projecting 'winter gardens' maximise the south west aspect of the blocks and allow a visual connection to a landscaped street, which is incorporated into a wider masterplan. "Sustainable principles were adopted throughout, adds project architect Stacey Philips " it's all about social interaction, personalisation of spaces whilst maintaining levels of privacy and maximise a feeling of ownership".

The design has a northern European feel and warm, simply detailed brickwork is complimented with western red cedar boarding and timber windows. Their proposals form part of a larger masterplan currently being undertaken by gm+ad for EDI. The scheme should go on site in January 2005 and be completed in 2006.