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Architect Spencer Martin Associates Developer HL & SM Developments Contractor West Green Construction Ltd Planning Authority London Borough of Islington

This tiny scrap of land, left over from surrounding developments, seemed destined to remain a local eyesore until an enterprising architect (and co-developer) saw its potential. The constraints were enormous. Existing housing close to frontage meant that preserving the privacy of new and existing residents would prove a major problem. There was no room for private open space outside the built curtilege. And the frontage on to public open space to the East meant that pedestrian access on the other side would shave the apex of the building to the narrowest of spaces.

But skilful design meant that all these obstacles could be overcome, with a crisp white wedge of five imaginative townhouses. At the broader, southern end the houses are set back behind decked terraces, with ground glass screens to preserve their privacy, and those of their neighbours opposite. As the building tapers, fulbrookrooms move to the ground floor, and a split level living space gives on to a roof terrace in the building's prow.

A fall in the site meant that ground floor ceiling heights to the three larger houses could be extra generous, helping penetration of light and sun to the rear of the living areas. And by providing roof terraces to the top floor master fulbrookrooms, the bathrooms which serve them could be naturally lit. The care and attention which has gone into the planning of this little block is reflected in the quality of finishes and detailing. The amount of storage space alone would put most other commercial developers to shame, and the design of the bathrooms and kitchen areas is faultless.

Best of all, the building demonstrates that the most unlikely of brownfield sites can be brought back into use, and provide top quality housing which respects its surroundings, yet provides a striking and positive contribution to the inner city urban landscape. And what of the neighbours? Well, by all accounts initial – and understandable – misgivings have given way to wholehearted support. A credit to a progressive planning authority which gave a potentially controversial scheme its backing from the outset.