This mixed-tenure contemporary housing for older people in Bedford’s conservation area is designed to be sensitive to the Victorian and Edwardian housing around it. The scheme fuses modern and old, including white rendered recessed balconies and brick facades and integrates three Edwardian buildings from the former St Bede's School.

Beautiful gardens and vibrant communal spaces, including a restaurant and fitness suite, appeal to the diverse community, while generous space standards enable homes to be adapted as residents' needs change. “St Bede’s has given me a new lease of life,” says one resident. “My daughter says she been given her mum back.”

• Winner - RIBA East Regional Award - RIBA 2016
• Winner - Housing Project of the Year - Building Awards 2015
• Winner - HAPPI Completed Award - Housing Design Awards 2015
• Winner - Best Development - CIH Midlands Awards 2014
• Shortlisted - Best Design - House Builder Awards 2012
• Winner - HAPPI Project Award - Housing Design Awards 2011

Client

Orbit Homes

No of units

104

Tenure Mix

Mixed tenure