HTA was appointed by Freecity to contribute to early-stage design development across key parcels within the Olympic Park masterplan. Our urban design strategy applies a modular approach to building layout and form, aligning with Freecity’s ambition to deliver high-density housing efficiently across multiple tenures and typologies. The revised plan establishes a clear block structure centred on the new Metro station, with buildings arranged to define its arrival point and reinforce legibility across the town centre. Shops and homes are placed along the main streets, like Figtree Drive and Station Square, to keep the ground level lively and welcoming. Smaller laneways run between blocks, making it easier to walk through the neighbourhood and allowing more light to reach the shared podium spaces. The buildings are arranged within a clear framework that balances the need for more housing with a clear and legible layout, human-scale design and good access to daylight. The updated plan provides 16,578m² more residential space than earlier versions while ensuring homes and public areas continue to receive strong sunlight and fresh air. Building heights and setbacks are adjusted to reduce overshadowing of key streets and squares. Streets and building layouts are aligned to preserve views towards the central park, keeping green space closely connected to everyday life.
