Our resident-led retrofit project for the Becontree Estate has been shortlisted for the Pineapple Awards in the 'Community Engagement: Homes' category. The project, developed in partnership with Be First Regeneration Limited and Urban Symbiotics, focused on creating an estate-wide retrofit guide through genuine collaboration with residents.

The guide prioritised fuel poverty and resident wellbeing in its technical solutions. This approach led to meaningful shifts in community perspectives, with residents developing a more collective view of estate improvements. As captured in feedback from the Resident Becontree Estate Forum: "My attitude has changed to be more holistic – thinking more what's good for those living around me, rather than solely focusing on my home."

Working on Europe's largest housing estate presented a unique opportunity to demonstrate how collaborative design can address both individual and community needs. The project shows that when residents are genuinely involved in shaping retrofit strategies, the outcomes better serve both current and future generations.

Our thanks go to our partners at Be First Regeneration Limited and Urban Symbiotics, and to all the Becontree residents who contributed their time and knowledge throughout the process.

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