A groundbreaking new development is hoping to redefine sustainable architecture as the world’s tallest energy-positive building.

Proposed by Birmingham-based GNM Developments, The Narrowhouse will be a UK-first, generating more clean energy than it consumes and setting a new benchmark for zero-carbon city living. The scheme was first submitted in June 2024, as ‘Gather & Soul’ but has been renamed to reflect the heritage of the building’s location.

At 29 storeys, the tower will be covered in 4,070m² of advanced solar panels, transforming sunlight into electricity to power the building and feed excess energy into a local clean-energy microgrid. In doing so, The Narrowhouse will reduce carbon emissions by 87.9 tonnes per year, an over 100% reduction in CO2 which would be produced by a typical building of this size, setting a new sustainability standard for city living.

This bold new vision for Gas Street Basin places Birmingham at the forefront of green innovation while creating 249 co-living apartments in the city centre.

Gerald Manton, Managing Director of GNM Developments, said:

“The Narrowhouse is more than a building—it’s a statement about the future of sustainable urban living. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to position Birmingham as a global leader in sustainable development. With the UK working towards net-zero targets and demand for affordable housing increasing, Birmingham is perfectly positioned to lead this transformation. We’re calling on the public to show their support and make this bold vision a reality. The tower aims to be “A Beacon of the Future, Inspired by the Past”.

Gas Street has always been a symbol of energy innovation. In the 19th century, it was home to Birmingham’s first public gas lighting. Now, The Narrowhouse will continue this legacy, ushering in a new era of solar-powered energy generation.

Alongside its pioneering green technology, The Narrowhouse introduces a co-living model, designed to make city-centre living more affordable and community-driven. Residents will benefit from private apartments with shared social spaces, plus a cinema, podcast/media rooms, co-working hubs and state-of the-art-fitness facilities. And at the summit of the 29-storey building, a stunning rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the city.

GNM Developments have worked alongside officers at Birmingham City Council, and these amended proposals have been submitted in response to comments and feedback received.

By combining affordability, community, and sustainability, The Narrowhouse represents a step forward in modern urban housing. While bold and imaginative, The Narrowhouse will also honour Birmingham’s industrial heritage by restoring and repurposing the historic 1875-built toll house.

The Narrowhouse is being developed by GNM Developments in collaboration with award-winning architects Broadway Malyan.