Knights Road

A’Bear and Ball Architects have been appointed by the 5-star housebuilder Hill Group for the delivery stages of the Knights Road project, an 84-unit shared ownership low energy housing scheme in Blackbird Leys, Oxford, developed for Peabody and Oxford City Council.

This innovative project aims to provide affordable housing, enabling young people to stay local and make the first step onto the housing ladder. The development will feature a mix of home sizes to meet local demand, including eight three-bedroom and 68 two-bedroom houses, catering for the housing needs of the area.

Designed with a strong focus on sustainability, the homes will adhere to low energy principles to reduce environmental impact and lower utility costs for residents. Each unit will include advanced features such as a highly performing thermal envelope, Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs), and Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems. These technologies will significantly reduce heating demand, minimize energy consumption, and enhance indoor air quality, ensuring comfortable and efficient living environments.

The site layout has been meticulously planned to foster a sense of community and integration with the surroundings. A new central green will act as the heart of the site, providing a communal space for residents. A safe and accessible route through the site will connect to Kassam Stadium, improving local mobility for residents and visitors. Safe, overlooked green spaces and a promenade parallel to the brook edge will enhance the aesthetic and ecological value of the area. Additionally, existing wildlife areas will be protected and enhanced, supporting biodiversity and offering a peaceful retreat.

A’Bear and Ball Architects are proud to contribute to this transformative project, emphasising sustainability and thoughtful design to create a vibrant, inclusive, and environmentally conscious community in Blackbird Leys.