London Families Build Their Own Affordable Homes in Lewisham
Southeast London families are celebrating a landmark housing project that lets residents design and build their own homes. Spearheaded by the Rural Urban Synthesis Society (RUSS), this is the capital’s largest community-led effort to tackle the city’s affordable housing crisis.
15 Years in the Making
The new block of 36 homes in Lewisham took 15 years to complete. Local volunteers worked tirelessly at every stage—from forming the community group and securing land to fundraising, managing architects and builders, winning planning permission, and physically building the homes and landscaping the area. Their dedication has turned an ambitious dream into reality.
Affordable Homes for Everyone
The homes belong to a community land trust, guaranteeing they stay affordable. Options include full ownership, part rent-part buy under London Living Rent, and social rent. This means families from all walks of life have a chance to own a home in the capital.
Residents don’t just live there—they actively manage their housing with regular meetings at an on-site community hub, also built by volunteers.
Innovative Partnerships Drive Success
RUSS formed in response to London’s affordable housing shortage. They joined forces with the Greater London Authority, Lewisham Council, the Cooperative Development Society, Triodos Bank, and Big Issue Invest to get the project off the ground.
The architecture team, led by Shepherd Epstein Hunter alongside Architype and Jon Broome Associates, prioritised social and environmental sustainability. Future residents helped design the homes and could choose to self-build or self-finish, boosting pride and ownership.
Green Tech and New Community Space
The homes feature an air pollution sensor to monitor how local trees and plants improve air quality, promoting health and sustainability.
Thanks to a crowdfunding campaign and a Veolia Environmental Trust grant, a new public riverside garden and play area is also being built for families and neighbours to enjoy.
Community Pride and a Model for the Future
“This momentous and challenging project shows what ordinary people can achieve when they share a vision and determination,” said Anurag Verma, Chair of RUSS. “We have created a sustainable neighbourhood and a unique housing model. We hope other communities will be inspired to create their own solutions.”
