ABSTRACT
The real paradox of Derwenthorpe was that Barratt was effective at marketing, and managed to sell a particular kind of lifestyle that is not typical of their own projects. The residents and Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust were very pleased to discover that the swales designed for Derwenthorpe have alleviated rather than exacerbated flooding issues in Osbaldwick. All the residents love the appearance of the development, but apparently estate agents have said it has a ‘Marmite effect’. One resident described it as traditional but with contemporary benefits. Some found it useful for heat gain and regulation throughout the year. Others found the homes generally too hot in summer because of all the glazing, unless they opened all the windows. The housing designed by Studio Partington is quite contemporary, with traditional influences appearing in the form of the roofs and the materials used.
