Double Dykes

Double Dykes is home to a well-established gypsy/traveller community. The site existing accommodation, although renovated over the years was, however, suffering from mould, condensation, a vermin infestation and high energy costs – and did not meet current housing space standards. ECD were therefore commissioned by the Council to work with the community and design team for the redevelopment of the site in-line with the cultures, traditions and lifestyles of the Double Dykes resident community.

The new homes largely sit within the original pitch location to minimise the adjustments required to existing services and infrastructure. In order to accommodate the larger chalets (resulting from their increased space standards), two chalets have been relocated to the north of the site to make better use of this previously under-utilised area of the site. To reduce disruption to residents, and support a high-quality, energy efficient build, a modular construction approach was adopted. This method allowed the chalets to be prefabricated off-site in a controlled factory environment, significantly reducing the on-site construction time while improving build accuracy, minimising waste, and limiting the impact on local roads. The modular units arrived as complete three-dimensional structures split into 4 sections, with all internal finishes and fittings in place, requiring only final service connections once on-site.

The design of the chalets drew inspiration from traditional gypsy/traveller accommodation, particularly in the treatment of the front elevation. A key feature was the use of contrasting cladding colours and subtle variations in cladding orientation, reinforcing the identity of each home while ensuring visual cohesion across the estate. By combining modern construction techniques with a deep understanding of the community’s needs, the Double Dykes redevelopment is successfully delivering high-quality, energy-efficient homes that respected tradition while improving comfort, security, and long-term sustainability.

Team:

• Perth & Kinross Council – Client
• ECD Architects – Architect
• Keegans – Cost Consultant
• Raeburn Farquhar Bowen – Landscape Architect
• Bayne Stevenson Associates – Civil & Structural Engineer
• Butler Consulting – Mechanical & Electrical Engineer
• Ogilvie Construction – Contractor
• Ardbeg Modular – Modular Contractor