CEFN ISAF
A topographic approach to social housing in South Wales Valleys - 40 social rent homes across two new apartment blocks set within a sloped landscape
FOR MERTHYR VALLEYS HOMES
Located in Cefn-coed-y-cymmer, meaning ‘the hill by the wood at the confluence’, this special housing scheme sits within a once-dense woodland that was felled in 1765 to supply fuel for the historic Cyfarthfa ironworks.
Two buildings of stepped form, both in plan and section, respond to the site's sloped topography, ensuring a sensitive transition to the scale of neighbouring homes. This approach also optimises dual-aspect living and enhances privacy for residents. The result creates a building that feels set within the landscape. The design draws influence from local materials and details including render and stone. An earthy green colour tone is proposed to create a natural-looking palette that adds vibrancy to the site and softens the buildings within the wider landscape.
MAXIMISING LIGHT, SPACE & GREENERY
The design introduces two new residential point blocks, strategically positioned to create a central open space that enhances porosity, views, and natural light throughout the site. The building footprints have been minimised to pull back from the site edges, maximising soft landscaping and fostering a greener environment.
LONG-TERM VIABILITY
The existing 1970s development consists of two linear blocks running east to west, with a communal courtyard between them. However, the buildings are in poor condition and no longer suitable for contemporary housing. Retrofitting and reusing the structures would be costly and would not resolve the fundamental design and layout issues that make them unfit for purpose. Therefore, the proposal prioritises demolition and reconstruction as the only viable long-term solution.
LOCATION
Merthyr Tydfil, Wales
SIZE
40 homes
STATUS
Planning granted 2024
CLIENT
Merthyr Valleys Homes