New Islington

New Islington is a Millenium Community being built in the northern English city of Manchester. The project, led by Will Alsop, will bring a rather vibrant and eccentric look to the new eco-conscious development.

The development will build 1400 new homes by some of the "best" architects and the builders. The first apartments that will go on sale will be the "Chips" from Will Alsop (pictured above – click to enlarge).

One of the more extreme sections is Islington Square which is designed by FAT (pictured right). The Guardian has a piece on them and says:

At first glance, Islington Square’s exaggerated exteriors would appear to support those critics who see Fat as superficial provocateurs, but there is substance beyond the facades, in every sense. For one thing, it was the residents themselves who selected Fat… The residents didn’t specifically request the stage-set facade with its giant brick patterning, mock ornamental gables, cloud-like profiles and false windows, but Fat persuaded them of its practical advantages.

There’s some interesting insight into the eco-building practices too on the New Islington site:

There won’t be much to see, but beneath the surface of New Islington there are some clever things going on to save both the planet and your money. A lot of effort is being put into the design of all the new homes, so that they are better insulated, better built, lighter and quieter than most modern homes. Wherever possible, they are also constructed from materials that don’t deplete natural resources.

You can also feel proud that your heat and power and water supply are obtained from green, locally generated sources, so just by living in New Islington you are doing your bit towards helping the environment.

Guardian Article
New Islington Millennium Community, Manchester
FAT