Business Details
20 Years
experience
Bespoke Eco-Homes in Southern England
Founded in 2006 by Mark Watts (RIBA) and Ted Watts (FRICS), Cedar Rydal specialises in creating bespoke, eco-friendly homes that prioritise design excellence and environmental responsibility. Our approach focuses on tailoring developments to their unique sites, ensuring architectural integrity while minimising ecological impact. We reject standardised house types in favour of collaborative design processes that incorporate input from stakeholders, resulting in properties that harmonise with their surroundings. With decades of combined experience in architecture and property development, our team delivers high-quality residential projects that balance innovation with practicality. We advocate a 'fabric first' philosophy, prioritising durable, low-maintenance building materials before integrating renewable energy systems.Our portfolio includes award-winning schemes in conservation areas and rural settings, demonstrating our ability to navigate complex planning challenges while maintaining design integrity. From initial concept to completion, we maintain rigorous attention to detail, ensuring every project meets our exacting standards. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond individual buildings to encompass broader environmental considerations in every development. As a small-scale developer, we maintain direct involvement in all projects, guaranteeing consistent quality and client satisfaction. Our expertise in residential regeneration and mixed-use schemes positions us as trusted partners for discerning property developments.
Services
Eco-friendly home development
Architectural design services
Residential regeneration projects
Conservation area developments
Feasibility studies
Mixed-use schemes
Bespoke property design
Sustainable construction
Planning consultation
Rural development solutions
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We create bespoke eco-homes tailored to their specific sites
- Our directors have combined 50+ years in architecture and development
- We pioneered sustainable designs in challenging conservation areas
- Our 'fabric first' approach ensures long-lasting, low-maintenance properties
- We maintain direct involvement in all aspects of development
Services
Eco-Friendly Home Development
We create bespoke eco-homes that prioritise environmental responsibility without compromising design quality. Our developments incorporate energy-efficient materials and construction methods tailored to each site's unique characteristics. With a 'fabric first' approach, we ensure long-term sustainability and minimal maintenance requirements for all properties.
Architectural Design Services
Our RIBA-accredited architect leads the design process for all projects, creating innovative solutions that respond to site-specific challenges. We specialise in modern designs that integrate seamlessly with conservation areas and protected environments while maintaining contemporary functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Residential Regeneration
We transform underutilised sites into vibrant residential spaces through careful planning and community consultation. Our expertise includes repurposing historic buildings and brownfield sites into modern living spaces while preserving architectural heritage and local character.
Conservation Area Developments
We specialise in delivering modern housing solutions within protected conservation areas. Our approach balances contemporary design needs with preservation requirements, demonstrated through successful projects in Blackheath and other historically sensitive locations.
Feasibility Studies
We conduct comprehensive assessments to determine the viability of potential developments. Our studies evaluate planning constraints, environmental considerations, and financial viability to ensure projects achieve both architectural and commercial success from inception.
People
Mark Watts
Chief Executive & RIBA Architect
Chartered architect with 30+ years' experience, founder member of The Green Register. Led design of most Cedar Rydal projects since 2006. Specialises in sustainable architecture and conservation area developments.
Ted Watts
Non-Executive Chairman
FRICS surveyor with 50+ years in property development. Former RICS President and housing association founder. Provides strategic direction and maintains industry standards across all projects.
Teresa Magatti
Company Finance Officer
FCA-qualified accountant since 1984. Oversees financial health of the company and contributes to development appraisals. Combines financial expertise with practical understanding of property market dynamics.
Questions
What makes Cedar Rydal different from other developers?
We focus exclusively on small-scale, bespoke developments that prioritise design quality and environmental sustainability. Our projects respond to their specific locations rather than using standard house types.
Do you work in conservation areas?
Yes, we specialise in delivering modern designs within conservation areas, with proven success in Blackheath and other protected locations through collaborative planning processes.
What sustainability features do your homes include?
We use a 'fabric first' approach with high-performance building materials, energy-efficient designs, and passive heating/cooling principles. Renewable energy systems are integrated where appropriate.
How are local communities involved in your projects?
We conduct extensive local consultation for all developments, incorporating community feedback into our designs to ensure they meet local needs and gain planning approval.
What types of properties do you develop?
We specialise in architect-designed residential properties ranging from bungalows to terraced houses, always tailored to their specific sites and environmental contexts.
Can I visit one of your developments?
While we respect residents' privacy, we can arrange visits to selected show properties or provide detailed case studies of completed projects upon request.
