When people reach retirement age, they often start to consider their living situation. They might choose to downsize, to relocate to somewhere they’ve always dreamed of living or to move to a home that they know will suit them no matter what the future holds.

For someone opting for the latter move, they will probably have several priorities. Single-storey living is likely to be desirable, in case stairs become tricky in the future, as well as outdoor space and close-by shops and amenities to reduce the need to drive. Of course, a well-insulated home to minimise heating bills is also key.

The challenge is that these criteria often add up to a requirement for an expensive building. Bungalows might sound tempting, but building just a single storey will reduce the value of money per square foot considerably, particularly if sustainable materials and techniques are adopted.

One answer is to create communities that include garden flats for retirees. For example, a housing development could include a selection of garden flats, with affordable maisonettes above for younger people or small families.

These types of developments could provide the answer to affordable, sustainable home creation that the UK is looking for. Garden flats will be better insulated if they have a dwelling above, while the maisonettes will be more affordable for young people looking to get a step on the housing ladder. Overall, the building costs will be much more economical than building a series of single-storey homes.

It goes without saying that creating garden flats could form part of a wider scheme that aims to enhance biodiversity. Taking an ecologically-sensitive approach to outside space within a new development will make a huge difference to our villages and towns.

We’re working on a proposal for a development in Hertfordshire of 14 dwellings that could include such garden flats. Our aim is to create homes that the community really needs, to allow people to stay in the village even if they want a more sustainable, easy access home. Watch this space as there will be more details to follow and get in touch if you’d like to know more.