A DIY utopia – designed by people, for people. AJ 07.2025

Publication Year

2025

Document Status

Current

Abstract

Hazelmead, a landmark community-led housing project in Bridport, Dorset, represents over 16 years of collaboration between Bridport Cohousing Community Land Trust and Barefoot Architects. Conceived to tackle the acute local challenges of affordability, sustainability, and social isolation, the 53-home development is the UK’s largest cohousing scheme. Set on a seven-acre hillside plot within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the project features car-free streets, shared allotments, and homes arranged to foster interaction and community. Through a legal asset lock, the homes remain under community ownership in perpetuity, offering an innovative model for sustainable, affordable housing. Hazelmead exemplifies a grassroots response to rural housing inequality, shaped by a deep understanding of place, need, and the power of cooperative living. Includes architect’s view, project data, clients’ view, sustainability data, consultant’s view, working detail. Architect: Barefoot Architects

Author

Williams, F

Publisher Information