Custom build homes on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Future residents of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park might be able to design their new home if home buyers are keen on the idea.

Custom build homes are one of the innovative forms of development that the London Legacy Development Corporation is considering as part of its diverse housing offer on the Park.

The Legacy Corporation has set up an online survey to explore how many Londoners are interested in being involved in the design and construction of their own home. People can take part by completeing the online survey and will be contacted at a later date if custom build homes do go ahead.

Custom build, which is a popular approach in the United States and Europe, offers occupants a bigger say in the layout and look of their homes, so they can be ‘customised’ to fit their precise needs. This can include everything from designing a home’s layout to being directly involved in interior design and fit out of kitchens and bathrooms. Groups can also collaborate with other households to design outdoor space.

Dennis Hone, Chief Executive of the London Legacy Development Corporation, said: “We want to create successful communities on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park by offering a diverse range of housing that attracts everyone.

“Custom build would give people greater control of their home’s construction meaning that families could create their perfect home. This survey is a chance for people to tell us whether they would be interested in being involved.”

The Legacy Corporation has planned to build up to 8,000 new homes in five neighbourhoods over the next 18 years. Over 40% will be family homes (three bedroom or more), and up to 35% will be affordable homes.

The Legacy Corporation’s focus on family homes has taken into consideration the number of high-density developments already being planned for the surrounding area. It will also help to tackle the problem of people moving out of the area once they have children due to the lack of three bedroom plus homes.

The custom build survey will be conducted online and is open to anyone who works or lives in the London area, though the main focus will be on people who work or live in the four neighbouring boroughs – Newham, Waltham Forest, Hackney and Tower Hamlets.

It will run until April 19. The Legacy Corporation will then assess the results for the future development of the Park.