This project sought to integrate a high quality contemporary dwelling into the existing open countryside landscape setting working with steeply levelled topography to form a part earth sheltered dwelling. The building is arranged such that the internal plan invites southern solar gains deep into the accommodation in a controlled manner via an internal courtyard aspect, possible even given the prevailing northern aspect to the site.

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The proposals include for future flexibility to achieve lifetime homes standards, ensuring adaptability of spaces over time - including a self contained 'granny flat', along with the majority of key habitable spaces being located on a single floor plane.

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The handcrafted brick and masonry construction have inherent thermal mass properties, which also assist in delivering a passively sustainable approach to design. The roof area consists of a planted sedum blanket to enhance biodiversity, provide sound insulation and reduce heat loss from excessive wind cooling.

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Materials are sensitively used throughout the proposal: super-insulated walls, full height triple glazing, Corten steel feature panels - to help evoke the agricultural setting and appearance; porous paving - to bring about a low impact composition; and, the quality of architectural detailing - to enhance the characteristics of the local area.

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Natural landscaped spaces surrounding the site shall be retained, with the proposed dwelling presenting a continuation of the natural landscape into and around the site; with the principle views into and out from the site preserved and enhanced.

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Designed whilst Project Architect at R.R.A. alongside Garry Thomas, now Thomas Studio Ltd. The project has now successfully been granted permission, with Garry working with client to deliver the scheme on site. Excited to see the finished scheme in future!