The once notorious Orlebar Gardens has been given a new lease of life through an ambitious programme of remodelling and refurbishment. The 57 no. 1950's five storey walk-up maisonettes have been humanised by a combination of partial lopping, re-orientation of flats and the revision of private staircases, balconies and gardens to create personal defensible space.

The project was carried out in two phases under Estate Action funding, following intensive resident consultation.

The relevance of Orlebar Gardens as a project is the complete transformation of the estate at every level, which makes it an exemplar for similar problem estates across the country. It is also a model of sustainable urban housing for the future, where high density is essential, but without the loss of privacy, security and amenity.

Bristol Civic Society award 1997
Civic Trust commendation 1998