“They’re [the houses] the best thing I’ve ever done in my life. [...] The festival can come and go in a flash can’t it? But the houses are there forever.’”
Maggie’s Farm features local stone donated by Michael Eavis
Maggie’s Farm | Pilton, Somerset
Client: Guinness Developments
Value: £2m
Services provided: Feasibility Study, Planning Stage Design, Public Consultation, Planning Application, Detailed Design, Energy Strategy, SAP Assessment, Principal Designer
Rural exception site development of 39 affordable homes in Pilton, Somerset.
Early sketches for Phase 1
gcp developed designs for these affordable homes, built for the local community on a rural exception site, with careful consideration of the local vernacular and architectural details of the village. Alongside this, gcp designed and led the stakeholder and resident engagement process.
The final project, for Guinness Developments on land owned by Michael Eavis, combines traditional detailing and materials including extensive natural stone walling, with spacious open plan homes heated by wood-burning stoves in phase 1 with wood provided from the local Worthy Farm estate.
The completed development, built in two phases by EG Carter Ltd, provides excellent low-energy homes with a traditional character which complements the village setting. Opening ceremonies for both phases were attended by special guests.
The land and stone were donated by Michael Eavis on the condition that the homes would serve the local community in perpetuity.
Graphic showing Glastonbury Tor symbolically in the background
Phase 2 opening with Gary Lineker, Michael Eavis and the Glastonbury founder’s grandchildren
Phase 1 opening with David Beckham, Michael Eavis and the Glastonbury founder’s grandchildren
Site Plan