Project | 406m² Contemporary New Build Dwelling

Location | Gillingham, Dorset

Build Route | Self Managed

Construction | Prefabricated Timber Frame

Energy Performance | A+

Building Services | Solar PV, ASHP, MVHR, Battery Storage

How did you meet the Client and what was their background?

We had the pleasure of meeting Gary and Sue at a self-build exhibition. They were first-time self-builders with a dream of creating their own grand design home. Gary, having recently taken early retirement, had purchased a 1950's bungalow situated on a picturesque rural site offering stunning 360-degree views near Gillingham, Dorset.

What were their key objectives?

Gary and Sue's primary objective was to craft a custom home tailored to their lifestyle needs. While the property would primarily serve as their everyday residence, it also needed to offer a welcoming and comfortable space for family visits. Gary, in particular, was passionate about achieving a contemporary aesthetic both inside and out. Additionally, they sought an energy-efficient home, leveraging renewable technology to reduce long-term operating costs. Gary was also keen on achieving value for money by overseeing individual trade packages, a strategy that ultimately maximised their budget compared to traditional main contractor or turn-key approaches.

What build route did they adopt?

Gary took on the role of project manager, overseeing the entire construction process. This included on-site management, supervision of trades, and coordination of subcontractors. They opted for a mix of supply-and-fit packages for certain components, while others were labour-only contracts, with Gary directly procuring materials.

What did the initial design stages look like?

In the initial stages, we brainstormed conceptual ideas that swiftly evolved into a vision for a contemporary flat-roofed house. We decided to place the bedrooms on the ground floor and the main living spaces on the first floor to fully embrace the breathtaking views. The design also considered the path of the sun, maximising natural light penetration for enhanced living spaces. Once we had a solid concept, we continued to refine and expand upon it, working on spatial arrangements and external aesthetics.

Did you change your approach in order to find the right solution?

At the heart of our approach to every project lies our first principle: a profound understanding of each client's objectives and a meticulous balancing of their priorities. This fundamental philosophy leads us to embrace the distinctive circumstances of each project and adopt a tailor-made approach, ensuring that no two endeavours are alike. For Gary and Sue, the goal was to deliver functional spaces while achieving architectural excellence and high energy-efficiency standards. Their budget allowed us to explore innovative solutions without compromising on quality. Building a close relationship with them and understanding their stance on cost versus quality was pivotal in finding the perfect design.

Were there any challenges securing the planning consent?

Securing planning consent for the project involved obtaining a certificate of lawfulness (conforming to permitted development allowances) and an application to modify a boundary separating the domestic plot from an adjacent field. Fortunately, the local planning authority (LPA) was supportive of our proposals, and we successfully secured planning approval on our initial submission. Later in the technical design phase, Gary and Sue made some additional changes, which we formally presented to the LPA, and they were accepted.

After securing planning consent, what did you provide to allow the project to move forward?

Following planning approval, we were tasked with creating a comprehensive technical design that would facilitate cost estimation, building regulations compliance, and warranty approval, paving the way for construction to commence. This involved producing general arrangement drawings, detailed architectural specifications, and schedules. Knowing that Gary intended to tender individual trade packages, we tailored the information to suit this tender process. This included preparing separate drawing packs and specifications for each trade.

What other advice and support did you provide during the technical design stage?

Understanding that this was Gary's first experience managing a construction project, we matched our support to his needs, ensuring no gaps in the process. We assumed a comprehensive coordinating role, ensuring that the technical design aligned seamlessly with all third-party appointments, including structural engineers, timber frame specialists, window suppliers, and staircase designers. Throughout this phase, Gary could tap into our expertise and experience, and we guided him as needed, ensuring that everything was in order for the commencement of construction, including CIL exemption, planning condition discharge, energy calculations, building control, and building warranty.

How did the property achieve such a good energy rating?

Our approach to achieving an exceptional energy rating involved a combination of strategic design considerations and high-quality building materials. We carefully considered the orientation and placement of glazed elements to maximize energy efficiency from the outset. Substantial insulation and airtightness measures were incorporated into the timber frame construction, enhancing the baseline performance. The use of triple glazing and solar glass further improved thermal performance while preventing overheating. The integration of solar PV, an air-source heat pump, and battery storage into the design complemented the already impressive building fabric, resulting in minimal power requirements. In fact, Gary proudly demonstrated zero energy consumption from the grid through his mobile app on-site.

Were there any specific challenges to overcome?

One notable challenge arose when Gary opted for a pre-fabricated timber solution over our recommendation of steel frame construction. While Gary chose the timber solution for its single-point responsibility in delivering an insulated and airtight superstructure, he underestimated the complexity of the project. This presented a significant challenge during the construction phase of this element. Fortunately, we provided on-site support, offered intensive guidance, and liaised directly with the timber frame supplier and their site operatives, eventually successfully delivering the frame and allowing the project to progress.

How would you summarise the overall process and finished property?

What stands out about this project is Gary and Sue's commitment to quality over quantity. Despite the site's capacity for a larger property, they opted for a smaller, well-designed home. This approach resulted in functional spaces elevated by thoughtful design, taking full advantage of natural light and orientation. This philosophy enabled us to deliver high standards in materials and workmanship. The synergy of meticulous design and elevated building standards contributed to achieving an impressive A+ energy performance.

What did the client say about their journey with you?

“I had the pleasure of meeting Tony and Chris at Grand Designs London approximately five years ago when my family and I had just acquired a stunning two-acre plot in Dorset, perched atop a hill with breathtaking 360-degree vistas. Little did we know, that our journey to create our dream home would be a challenging, two-and-a-half-year endeavor filled with numerous plans, countless meetings, countless emails, and countless phone calls.

Our construction journey commenced in May 2018, with the goal of moving in by Christmas the following year in 2019. Being a novice in the world of construction, I knew I needed substantial support throughout the project. Tony Holt Designs came to our rescue, providing exemplary services that surpassed our expectations.

Tony Holt Designs expertly crafted a design that not only met our exact specifications but also adhered to our budget. They navigated us through the labyrinth of planning permissions and intricate construction details from inception to the present moment.

Their dedication was evident as they spent months meticulously crafting construction drawings and creatively solving challenges, particularly with the cantilevers and expansive glass features. I can attest to making countless phone calls over the past year, and each time, I had the privilege of speaking directly with Tony or Chris. They've demonstrated unwavering commitment in addressing any issues promptly.

In addition to their architectural prowess, Tony and Chris have been instrumental in connecting us with invaluable design consultants, trusted material suppliers, and reliable contractors. Currently, they're even assisting us in designing our ceilings to accommodate our lighting scheme.

What sets Tony Holt Designs apart is their genuine concern for their clients' well-being. They've made it a point to visit the site whenever they're in the area, ensuring that everything is proceeding smoothly and offering assistance whenever needed. Beyond being our architects, Tony and Chris have become cherished friends.

Considering the outstanding service we've received, I firmly believe that their expertise is worth far more than the fee we've paid. If I were to embark on another self-build project, there is no doubt in my mind that I would choose Tony and Chris without hesitation. Their dedication to excellence is unparalleled, and it would be a challenge to find a more exceptional service in the field of architecture and design.”

- Mr Gary Hughes