Ever wished you lived somewhere with a sense of community? Welcome to Highsett. It is a small estate hidden in central Cambridge. This leafy location offers extensive green space. It is within walking distance of central Cambridge.
Highsett was built in 1964. It was designed by Eric Lyons. He was one of the founders of Span Developments. The estate includes 48 houses and 37 flats. The houses and flats are managed separately.
Lyons combined modernist ideas with traditional materials. He used bricks and wood. He focused on light and space. The communal gardens are integral to the design. They enhance the living experience.
The houses are positioned to overlook lawns and trees. Garages and car parking are on the perimeters. Residents often meet on the footpaths. Lyons imagined that his houses would be updated. He thought they would be adapted to residents’ needs.
The gardens were considered carefully. The relationship between the buildings and gardens is important. It makes Highsett wonderful.
Residents here are a self-governing group of owners. They share the communal gardens. Children play. Dogs walk. Neighbors enjoy the space. Single people, couples, and families live here.
From April 2024, Saint Andrews Bureau manages the estate. They work with the Committee of Management of Highsett House Residents Society Ltd. They ensure the environment remains constant.
The original developers set rules. These are ratified by legal covenant. Owners must observe and adhere to these restrictions. Anyone moving to Highsett needs to understand these rules.
Highsett offers a unique living experience. It focuses on community and green space.
Span housing reacted against the “mock Tudor” style. This style was common in post-war architecture. Span aimed to build affordable, individually designed homes. These homes filled the gap between council estates and mansions. Span proved that planned estates could be genuine communities.
A typical Span house used new construction techniques. It featured open plan interiors. Large glass areas were common. The houses were integrated into Cunningham’s landscape design. The close relationship between building and landscape was key. This relationship is protected by covenants. A management committee of volunteer residents administers these.
Highsett is an exclusive, award-winning development. It sits in beautifully landscaped private gardens. It is right in the heart of the city. The location south of Cambridge city center is a great benefit. It is close to the train station and botanic garden. The mature landscape provides a peaceful green oasis.
Highsett won the RIBA Award in 1966 for Phase III. It became a Grade II listed building in 1998. This included Highsett and its front retaining wall.
So, as you wander through Highsett, notice the blend of modern design. Appreciate the sense of community. See how architecture and landscape come together to create a unique place to live. Highsett is more than just houses. It’s a vision of how people can live together.