Michelmersh is pleased to see its Freshfield Lane First Quality Multi bricks featured in one of this year’s winning entries at the 2025 RIBA UK Awards. Recognised for its sensitive and intelligent approach to design, 200 Becontree Avenue in Dagenham was commended for its deep understanding of context and commitment to quality in contemporary housing.
Designed by Archio and commissioned by Be First, the development is located on the historic Becontree Estate. Originally built between 1921 and 1935, the estate was a landmark achievement in public housing, comprising over 26,000 homes. Archio’s new addition reinterprets the estate’s architectural heritage with a fresh yet respectful design approach.
Replacing the expectation of dense, high-rise solutions, the scheme introduces two villa-style buildings containing 19 homes. This low-rise strategy preserves the scale of the surrounding neighbourhood while creating space for greenery, play areas, and shared pathways. Homes are bright and well-ventilated, with triple-aspect layouts, roof lights and dormer windows creating calm, welcoming interiors.
Freshfield Lane’s First Quality Multi bricks were selected for their character and warmth. Their varied tones reflect the surrounding stock brickwork while introducing a subtle contrast that supports the contemporary detailing. The brickwork is carefully balanced against new planting and generous landscaping, helping the buildings feel rooted in place while maintaining a distinct identity.
“The scheme draws on thorough research into the history and housing typologies of the Becontree Estate on which it sits. The estate is low-rise, embodying garden city principles, and dates from the 1920s–30s. It is considered to be the largest original social housing scheme in Europe. The team drew inspiration from the estate, resulting in a detailed understanding of and sensitivity to the local vernacular which they adeptly translated and updated.”
- – RIBA Jury
The development also incorporates several sustainability measures, including air-source heat pumps and enhanced energy efficiency standards. Each home exceeds national minimum space requirements by 10 percent, and the project achieves a 61 percent reduction in carbon compared to current regulations.
Previously recognised at the 2022 AJ Architecture Awards and the 2023 Brick Development Association Brick Awards, 200 Becontree Avenue continues to set a benchmark for affordable housing that balances sustainability, character and community-focused design.
Michelmersh is proud to support architects, clients and communities in delivering enduring architecture. Projects such as Becontree Avenue highlight the importance of material selection in shaping thoughtful, lasting environments.
For more information on the Becontree project, visit www.becontreeforever.uk. To learn more about the architects, visit www.archio.co.uk.
