About this Event
Join friends and colleagues for this delightful film on the Whittington Estate locally known as "The White Flats" followed by discussion with some of the people involved in the production of the film, on lessons that can be drawn for the design of new housing today.
Speakers include:
Jo McCaferty from Levitt Bernstein
Marina Milosev previously from LLDC
Chaired by Ana McMillan and Naike Zambotti
The estate consists of six parallel rows of homes, with pedestrian streets running between them. The buildings are made mainly from precast concrete, with dark-stained timber used for the windows and doors. The design follows a low-rise, high-density approach, common in Camden housing projects from the 60s and 70s. Flats are arranged in a ziggurat style, with each flat having a south-facing balcony or terrace for natural light. The estate includes a small park, sports pitch, playground, and street planters with greenery.
Key features
- Child-friendly Design: The Whittington Estate was inspired by the 1961 Halen estate in Switzerland and designed with children in mind, ensuring they could navigate and feel safe in the area.
- Key Features for Families: The estate’s pedestrianized streets and windows overlooking these streets promote safety, visibility, and neighbourly interaction. This makes it ideal for children to play outside and for parents to feel secure.
- Community Feel: The design encourages independence in children, with many parents appreciating how the spaces foster a sense of community and safety.
- Outdoor Spaces and Pedestrian Streets: Kids enjoy the car-free streets and shaded areas for play, while adults benefit from the interconnectedness of spaces, making it a safe, welcoming place for all ages.
- Architecture & Design: The low-rise, high-density design offers private outdoor spaces, natural light, and flexible living areas, contributing to the estate’s family-friendly appeal. Balconies and well-thought-out interiors add to the comfort and privacy of residents.
- Cultural Significance: Despite challenges during construction, the estate is now seen as a model of social housing. It has evolved into a highly sought-after area, with properties selling for over £1 million due to its design and community atmosphere.
- Community Success: The estate continues to foster a sense of community and connection, especially among families, making it a cherished place to live.
- Cats: The estate is also home to many cats, adding to the charm of the community (if you like cats :) )
The estate also known as Highgate New Town, was designed by architects Peter Tábori and Ken Adie for Camden Council's Architects Department. Construction began in 1972 and finished in 1979, five years later than originally planned. Tábori first designed the estate as his final-year project at Regents Street Polytechnic, initially named Highgate New Town. Later, the head of Camden’s Architects Department, Sydney Cook, commissioned Tábori to bring the design to life.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Gallery, 70 Cowcross Street, London, EC1M 6EJ, United Kingdom
GBP 5.00 to GBP 8.77