The Meadlands Mews supported living scheme delivers a home for an existing cohort of four adults with learning difficulties within their community for Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust and City of York Council.

Designed by Studio Partington, Derwenthorpe embodies the ethos and legacy of the client, the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust. Following the precedent set by the nearby ‘model village’ of New Earswick, it provides a sustainable, framework for an age-friendly community, designed to meet the needs of current and future residents. All 540 homes are built to Lifetime Homes Standards and local facilities include schools, nurseries, doctor and dental surgeries, a library and shops.

The housing layout is planned to make best use of the existing landscape, including the ancient hedgerows and trees within the site. SuDs and swales have been extensively integrated into the design. The creation of a vibrant, self-governing community in which residents are involved in decision-making was another over-arching aim.

Adopting the same architectural language seen throughout the award-winning Derwenthorpe development, it provides a home for four adults, whilst remaining tenure-blind and very much part of the community.