igloo breaks ground on ‘Home of 2030’ concept in Sunderland

Work is now underway on 16 new homes in Sunderland city centre, based on igloo’s pioneering Home of 2030 concept, created in collaboration with Mawson Kerr Architects and Openstudio Architects, which jointly won the national design competition established by RIBA and the UK government.

The project is part-funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and Sunderland City Council, to bring forward the winning Home of 2030 designs.

The scheme, which also includes a further 18 high-quality new townhouses due to complete in early 2027, places a strong emphasis on energy efficiency, design innovation, long-term resilience and quality of life for residents, while supporting the wider regeneration of the historic Vaux neighbourhood.

The development builds on igloo’s submission for the Home of 2030 competition, which sought to explore the future of housing delivery. The initiative encouraged designs that prioritised uniqueness, community and climate-friendly design, moving away from ‘identikit developments’ and towards homes of character.

“Breaking ground on the Homes of 2030 marks a significant milestone in turning our vision into reality,” said Michelle Williams, Project Director at igloo. “We’re setting a benchmark for sustainable, future-ready living that supports people’s wellbeing today, while building resilience for the future.  

“We’re proud to bring our experience in the North East to this development, where we’re working alongside partners to create spaces that are truly distinctive, delivering something special that blends forward-thinking design, low-impact construction and lasting community connection.”

As one of the winning teams, igloo and MawsonKerr’s competition entry developed a concept rooted in the use of low-impact materials, precision-led off-site construction, and high-performance energy systems. By blending modern technology with environmentally responsible design, the scheme aims to deliver homes that are centred around resident wellbeing, establishing community, low energy use, and reduced bills.

Will Mawson, co-founder at MawsonKerr Architects, added: "While the Home of 2030 concept is future-focused, it is fundamentally about delivering quality homes today, making the mobilisation of construction for this neighbourhood an exciting milestone.

“There were a number of important design factors in creating living spaces that elevate residents' quality of life, both now and in the future; that respect the planet on a micro and macro level; and that seamlessly fit into, and speak of, the bustling Sunderland city centre. This development works incredibly hard to balance all of these aspects."

With practical completion on the Homes of 2030 anticipated in autumn 2027, the scheme is part of the wider transformation of Riverside Sunderland and will offer a mix of two- and three-bedroom terraced houses, maisonettes, and apartments. Thoughtfully designed green spaces aim to promote wellbeing and community, while residents will also benefit from easy access to local leisure and hospitality venues, and proximity to major landmarks such as the nearby City Hall and the soon to open Culture House.

The development represents the next chapter in igloo’s commitment to regeneration in the North East, underpinned by its industry-leading Footprint® methodology and keen focus on creating new neighbourhoods that balance the needs of people, place and planet. Previous projects the developer has pioneered include Ouseburn Valley, where a former post-industrial site was reshaped into a thriving mixed-use neighbourhood.

igloo is advancing other major schemes across the North East, including One Founders Place, a sustainable Grade A office development, and Newcastle Helix, a 24-acre mixed-use district designed for both businesses and residents. The developer also worked closely with Sunderland City Council on the creation of the Riverside Sunderland Masterplan, helping to shape a bold, long-term vision for its regeneration.

Joe Broadley, development director at igloo, said: “The start of construction for the Homes of 2030 is a significant moment for Sunderland and for the wider regeneration of this key city-centre neighbourhood.  

“This scheme reflects igloo’s ambition to deliver high-quality, innovative homes that will attract people to live, work and thrive here. Working with our partners and Sunderland City Council, we’re helping to shape a vibrant, future-focused community that will benefit residents and support long-term economic growth across the city and wider North East region.”

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