One of ESHA’s first commissions has been from Westbury Homes and George Wimpey to design the first phase of the Llandarcy redevelopment between Swansea and Neath. In 2002 we were part of a small consultant team led by Alan Baxter Associates who developed the Masterplan for the town, and were responsible for the indicative design of Area One. The dramatic site is on a hill and enjoys magnificent views – south to the sea and north to the hills. Area One is a housing neighbourhood high on the southern slopes of the hillside. Our design incorporates low-energy townhouses and live/work units and sets out an urban framework of streets and lanes reflecting the steeply sloping topography and focusing on the village green. Constructed in local materials the scheme combines the local Welsh vernacular with the Arts and Crafts style of the existing Llandarcy village on the southern edge of the site.