Continuing the visionary masterplan and design guide work previously undertaken on the Dallas Dhu site, Fraser Livingstone Architects, h+m and a multi-disciplinary design team were appointed to develop detailed proposals for the initial core area of the site to support a detailed planning application.  

The detailed design work focussed on developing the key masterplan principles of generating a development pattern which draws inspiration from the extraordinary built fabric of Altyre Estate and the historic urban grain patterns of burgh towns in Moray, to create a development which responds positively to the specific characteristics of the site to create shelter and identity.

The landscape approach focussed on incorporating a series of distinct but inextricably interlinked landscape design strategies into a holistic and integrated design approach for the site. These included:

A public realm concept of ‘streets as places’ rather than movement corridors to create a successful place through good street design with a clear hierarchy of shared surface streets and private courts.

An integrated engineering and landscape approach to managing surface water drainage through the incorporation of a sustainable drainage network of rain gardens and swales which collect, attenuate and release surface water whilst also providing amenity value to the streetscape through their planted character and biodiversity benefits.

A sequence of direct and rational circulation routes to promote pedestrian and cycling permeability and connectivity and encourage non-motorised use.

A biodiversity strategy which is based on the protection, enhancement and diversification of habitat types and strengthening habitat connectivity within the site and with surrounding habitats.

An open space pattern based on the retention of a sequence of existing natural topographic features of knolls and hollows which are connected wit new green corridors of open space, and closely aligned with the pedestrian circulation and biodiversity strategies.

All houses are provided with a south or west facing private garden which extends into areas of communal garden to help promote a healthy lifestyle.  Orchard trees, fruit bushes and raised beds encourage residents to adopt a self- sufficient style of life.