Fairway

The Fairway is a residential-led development proposal in Mill Hill, Barnet, delivering approximately 150 homes within a new model of self-sustaining suburban living. Developed as part of a developer-led bid for Stories, the scheme provides 50% affordable housing, comprising 44 houses and 106 apartments, and seeks to demonstrate how high-quality housing can be combined with community ownership, environmental responsibility and long-term stewardship.

Building on the ambition to create Meaningful Homes, the masterplan is based around Metropolitan Workshop’s ‘homestead’ concept, creating a variety of home types arranged around sociable streets, community hubs and shared green spaces. The design responds to the site’s natural topography while establishing a distinctive character that promotes interaction, wellbeing and a strong sense of place. New frontages to The Fairway and enhanced connections to Stoney Wood help integrate the development into the wider neighbourhood.

The proposal rethinks traditional suburban development by creating a self-sustaining neighbourhood centred on housing choice, adaptability and community. Homes are designed to accommodate changing lifestyles and household needs over time, supporting a diverse and balanced community of all ages. A purpose-built rental model, professionally managed and guided by a resident-led Community Trust, encourages long-term stewardship and a strong sense of belonging.

Sustainability is embedded throughout the scheme, with all homes designed to achieve net-zero carbon performance while remaining affordable to operate. Generous living spaces, access to daylight and durable materials are complemented by a productive public realm that includes communal gardens, edible landscapes, shared amenity spaces and sociable green streets where learning, play and everyday activity are integrated. These shared spaces create opportunities for social engagement while supporting health, wellbeing and biodiversity.

The landscape-led masterplan acts as a catalyst for the wider neighbourhood, strengthening connections between local communities, schools, open spaces and Stoney Wood. By combining housing diversity, environmental performance and community-focused design, The Fairway establishes a replicable model for future suburban growth and supports Barnet’s ambition to become a leading example of sustainable and socially connected residential development.

Team: Townshends (Landscape) / Elementa (Sustainability)

Status: Competition