The client’s brief was for a “modern” & “Environmentally sensitive” new home, to replace an existing Victorian country cottage within the green belt. The form of the building has been influenced by the orientation, and shape of the site, as well as a very restrictive planning brief.  The planners insisted that they would only consider a building of “red brick”, with a “pitched roof”.

The site, although large, narrows significantly towards the front, and therefore the new dwelling is close to neighbours on both sides. The side elevations at first floor level are closed to avoid issues of overlooking.

The building has a large expanse of glazing to the rear to make the most of its southern orientation, and views out into the mature gardens. The front, North facing, elevation is solid, with minimal glazing, to minimise heat loss and to afford privacy and prevent noise pollution from the road.

A “passive” ventilation system was also installed, providing continuous air movement throughout the house, without heat loss.

 

​Residential New Build, Buckinghamshire (completed 2006)