GREENANE | NEW BUILD
Project Description: Replacement dwelling in Higher Langham, Dorset
Total Gross Internal Area: Proposed 406m² (inc garage)
Planning Granted: 2016
Procurement Method: Fully managed by Client appointed trade contractors direct.
Construction Technique: Mass concrete trench fill foundations with suspended concrete beam and block ground floor structure; Prefabricated timber frame structure with localised steel frame; Metal web first floor and roof structure.
Tony Holt Design Appointment: Design and planning, full working drawings and assembly details. Ad-hoc support during construction phase.
Our client was incredibly fortunate to acquire a site that encompassed a 1500ft² bungalow nestled within three acres of land. Located in a rural setting, the plot boasted awe-inspiring 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside. Remarkably, the plot remained within the village settlement boundary, thus avoiding the constraints imposed by greenbelt restrictions.
The client's vision entailed the creation of an ultra-contemporary dwelling that would serve as a prominent landmark. In our initial concept, we proposed an innovative design: an upside-down house with the living quarters situated on the first floor to maximize the capture of the breathtaking views. The architectural form of the building comprises two spacious boxes connected by a vertical link made entirely of glass. By artfully offsetting the boxes, we ensured that all internal areas would be flooded with natural light throughout the day, while offering unobstructed views of the picturesque surroundings. Moreover, we incorporated generously sized terrace areas on the first floor, providing ample breakout space, and an external staircase allowing direct access to the garden.
To anchor the house harmoniously within the site, we employed natural stone as an external material, lending a sense of permanence and connection to the surroundings. The skillful combination of render, porcelain cladding, and extensive glazing imbues the building with a lightweight and contemporary aesthetic, perfectly balancing its visual impact with the beauty of its natural surroundings.
Client Testimonial:
“They delivered a grand design that exceeded our expectations, that could be self-managed and within our budget. They provided a comprehensive design service providing me with all the information and support I needed to manage my first-ever self-build project.
As with most self-builds, we faced several challenges. They went above and beyond to help us at every step of the process and the success of our project is largely a result of the help gave us during the build.
If we were to ever self-build again we would not hesitate to use Tony and Chris again.”