Barnsbury Estate is a masterplan for transforming an entire housing estate in Kings Cross. The proposals for more than 1000 homes include repairing and enhancing the existing, ‘30s-built homes of Old Barnsbury, and the redevelopment of post-war buildings at New Barnsbury. The masterplan also provides commercial space, a new community centre and new green spaces for the estate with play spaces, outdoor gym equipment and growing areas.

275 homes will be fully refurbished and 351 post-war homes redeveloped for existing residents, with a further 550-600 new homes provided across the masterplan. The project aims to achieve 50% affordable housing including social rent and intermediate housing, with a mix of home types and sizes to suit the needs or residents.

The designs include several home types including mews houses, mansion blocks and terraces, with all new homes drawing upon the existing architecture and details. New streets and squares – some reinstating old routes that once crossed this part of London – are woven confidently into the estate to exude the feeling of having always belonged.

The masterplan is the result of a comprehensive consultation programme with existing residents of the estate. PTE’s design was approved by residents in March 2021, in a ballot that returned a 73 per cent yes vote.