Our proposals for 64 low energy homes form the first phase of this 540-unit exemplar sustainable community on the periphery of York. The design draws on the rich architectural legacy of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's century-old model village at nearby New Earswick. Large steeply pitched roofs, painted brickwork and striking dormer windows are combined to create a distinctive sense of place. Three houses will be built to Code for Sustainable Homes level 5 and the rest to level 4.