The 40-home scheme for the Merthyr Valleys Homes housing association will sit on a hillside in Cefn-coed-y-cymmer, on the north-western edge of Merthyr Tydfil. The plot was once covered by dense woodland, felled in the 18th century to fuel the nearby Cyfarthfa ironworks. The development, known as Cefn Isaf, involves demolishing two vacant and derelict 1970s housing blocks, replacing them with stepped buildings that follow the slope of the hill. London-based Coffey said the design ‘gently mediates between the scale of surrounding houses while ensuring that every home benefits from light, views and privacy’.Advertisement The two buildings will provide 26 one-bedroom and 14 two-bedroom homes, respectively. The scheme will also include some 30 car parking and 26 cycle spaces as well as accessible walkways and landscaped communal areas. The two blocks will be linked by a communal garden. Coffey said the buildings were pulled back from the site boundary to allow more green space and create more open views for residents. The design includes a green roof with integrated solar panels, and the plans also feature new tree planting and soft landscaping. The ‘earthy green’ façade, rendered finishes, stone detailing and glazed tile accents aim to reflect the design of local homes and the nearby Grade II*-listed Cyfarthfa viaduct, Coffey said.Advertisement Construction is expected to begin shortly. The project will use modern methods of construction and off-site fabrication, including modular light-gauge steel cassette framing. This is intended to reduce waste, cut build time, and lower the carbon footprint. The architect said retrofitting the 1970s blocks was not an option because of their poor condition. Coffey director Lee Marsden said his team was ‘working with the grain of the land, rather than against it’ and sought to create a design ‘that reflects the heritage, geography, and aspirations of Cefn-coed-y-cymmer’. The practice was appointed following an open competition in 2022.