Architect Danny Campbell Supports Social Bite Village Homeless Housing Plan

This blog post covers Hoko Design’s pro bono contribution to two new Social Bite villages in Scotland, led by celebrity architect Danny Campbell. It explains how digital design assets, modular timber construction, and community-led feedback are shaping temporary housing projects in Edinburgh and Rutherglen.

The villages will shelter up to 31 people while promoting integration and sustainable building practices.

Collaboration, context and the role of architectural visuals

The project shows how an architecture practice can add value beyond traditional design fees. Glasgow-based Hoko Design developed digital assets to support planning and community engagement for both villages, offering these services pro bono.

High-quality visuals and clear digital storytelling can make the difference between a stalled application and constructive community buy-in. This approach helps move projects forward and encourages community support.

Sites, approvals and local support

The two villages will offer temporary homes for up to 31 people across sites in Edinburgh and Rutherglen, South Lanarkshire. Edinburgh councillors have approved the relocation of the capital’s Social Bite village to the Granton Waterfront.

Rutherglen’s development will be located on Harriet Street, the former grounds of Westfield Saw Mills. Social Bite founder Josh Littlejohn credited Hoko’s imagery with helping secure planning consent and galvanising donor support.

Design approach and sustainable modular construction

Hoko Design updated the homes’ designs after listening to residents from the original Social Bite village. This feedback-led approach improves liveability and avoids repeating mistakes.

The units will be manufactured as modular components from sustainably sourced Scottish timber at Ecosystems Technologies’ factory in Invergordon. This reflects local supply-chain thinking and low-carbon construction methods.

Key design features and benefits

The schemes prioritize light-filled, flexible interiors and connections to nature. These principles support wellbeing and community cohesion.

Social impact and lessons for practice

These villages are designed as platforms for social reintegration. Combining temporary accommodation with communal facilities and green space supports pathways out of homelessness.

The programme shows how collaboration between charities, architects, and manufacturers can accelerate delivery. It keeps sustainability and dignity at the centre.

Why this matters to architects and engineers

For practitioners, the project highlights three practical lessons. Produce compelling visual assets early to aid approvals and fundraising.

Use modular timber to accelerate delivery and lower carbon. Embed resident feedback to improve outcomes.

Well-crafted visuals do more than sell an idea. They unlock permissions and attract the funding necessary to make compassionate projects a reality.

 
Here is the source article for this story: SHOTY architect Danny Campbell lends helping hand to Social Bite Village plan