Housing Day 2019: a look at our origins

In celebration of Housing Day 2019, we want to share with you the history behind Origin. Our founder Basil Jellicoe formed The St Pancras House Improvement Society in 1924 after being shocked by the poverty and inequality in Somers Town. He used his many powerful connections to improve living standards. He made a film which showcased the living conditions nearby and screened it up and down the country to those who had the money and influence to make this change happen.

One of his key values was that housing is not enough and almost 95 years later, we are still dedicated to building strong communities as well as great homes.