This book aims to complement the existing research in the field by offering a well-founded, pragmatic and ultimately optimistic perspective on how to approach this ever-growing market sector, how to communicate the positive socio-economic impacts, how to understand and develop for different price points and needs, and what developers, operators, and designers might be able to contribute towards the creation of successful, vibrant, and sustainable homes and communities.

Designing homes is one of the most significant challenges for an architect. Housing developments should enhance the quality of local areas by considering the physical context, providing private and public spaces, ensuring an appropriate mix and density, and maintaining high-quality standards. Sustainability is also a crucial factor.

However, developments must also comply with numerous standards and regulations. This guide aims to outline these requirements while also addressing economic and social challenges. Understanding these challenges at the design stage is essential to maximize a site’s development potential and its social, environmental, and economic contributions.

The design team must ensure a site’s potential is fully realized to secure a viable planning proposition. This requires a comprehensive approach, considering costs, value, and planning issues