Lancaster-based brand and digital design studio Factored has delivered a brand strategy and website design for a major programme of public housing development across York.
With plans for 600 homes running across eight developments, the scheme represents the largest housing build project by City of York Council since 1971 and is aimed at representing the future of housing developments in terms of sustainability and access.
The first site, Lowfield Green, launched in summer 2020 is a mixed-use development designed by BDP architects comprising of 165 new homes.
Factored won the tender to deliver brand strategy, website design and UX (User Experience) for the site built by the Council’s appointed developers, Spacecraft. The central website will be linked to separate websites for each new development.
Factored managing director Tom Grattan said: “We are extremely pleased to have been commissioned to help the City of York Council bring such an exciting and forward-thinking public housing development scheme to life.
“The ambitious plans aim to raise the standard of new build homes, with Passivhaus design that focuses on creating sustainable communities. With such a bold vision, we were tasked with disrupting the market by creating an unexpected brand.
“Through competitor and market analysis, we determined there was a gap for a contemporary developer brand that appealed to first-time buyers, home movers and empty nesters alike.
“Following extensive research with property seekers and stakeholders we created Shape Homes York, a brand centred around experience and connection, representing the 21 city wards with a striking monochrome symbol and pattern running throughout offline and digital touchpoints.
“With the first site now launched, we are very much looking forward to working on further developments which will be designed by multi-award-winning architect Mikhail Riches.”
Future phases in the scheme include the Burnholme, Duncombe Barracks, and Ordnance Lane.
