Sandringham Mews, Ealing

Across Europe, demand for housing is rising, thanks to population growth and shifting demographics. But supply is failing to keep pace: in the UK, the average number of new homes built annually over the last decade has been barely half the amount required, while the steady rise in house prices has pushed more people into the already overstretched rental market.

We need to build more high-quality housing, particularly now more people see their home as a place to work as well as sleep and socialise. But at the same time, we need to be conscious of how expanding our built environment contributes to our overall carbon footprint.

Co-living, an emerging residential concept that combines private living space with communal amenities, helps us tackle both these challenges. It is a low-carbon, higher-density model that allows us to repurpose under-used urban buildings, in a way that combats social isolation and broadens access to quality housing.

Bridges and our partner HUB have acquired Sandringham Mews, a 318-home consented co-living scheme in West London.

With this development, we are transforming an under-used car park fronted by commercial units into attractive high-quality new homes. The consented scheme will give the site – which is located in the Ealing Town Centre Conservation Area – a renewed purpose and bring it back into use.

In line with HUB and Bridges’ commitment to creating homes that foster community cohesion, residents will benefit from shared amenities such as a communal kitchen, gym, cinema, co-working space, and sunken courtyards with biodiverse planting. The scheme also dedicates a generous portion of the site to public spaces and retail, encouraging movement through the development.

Sustainability is at the core of the Sandringham Mews development.. The scheme is targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, with the potential to achieve ‘Outstanding’, exceeding current environmental planning requirements set by The London Plan and Ealing Council. In addition to being within walking distance of Ealing Broadway station, active travel will be supported with ample secure cycle storage.