2. Case Studies

My selection consists of house types of varying categories, interiors that demonstrate imaginative solutions to adjustable and moving parts, and creative furniture solutions. So the survey spans from architectural considerations through to interiors as one cannot be appraised without the other. Whilst my focus is on mass estate housing as opposed to ‘social or affordable housing’ I have found many examples of house design that are in other categories but are nonetheless inspiring, well designed and can teach us something. Hence, my survey is deliberately broad simply because there are not enough estate-type houses worthy of inclusion. Out of 22 houses listed here, 12 are estate type and 6 are with integrated garages. The traditional fireplace with projecting chimney breast has almost totally disappeared to be replaced by central heating and the odd wood burning stove. I should point out that some of the schemes shown here could also consist of mixed development of apartments and some social housing. Most house schemes will have a small key plan diagram summarising one of the six types of plan with rooms indicated in orange. Stairs may vary. The type of house construction is stated after each case study heading. The technical information is not standardised because it is in the form that the architects and designers have given to me. I show some examples of apartment interiors and some furniture systems because their designs have some merit in terms of imagination and creativity, something that is lacking in the estate house type. There is the question of to what degree is an estate house equipped with fitted furniture items? The standard supply is reduced to mainly the kitchen and bathroom areas with built-in wardrobes in some bedrooms. The rest of the house consists of characterless empty boxes that are left to the occupier to equip and furnish. This exposes to me a complete lack of understanding by the designer/builders of what the basic shell should consist of.