HERNSHAW | NEW BUILD
Project Description: New Build Dwelling in Wiltshire in a conservation area, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Total Gross Internal Area: Proposed 324m² (exc garage 40m²)
Planning Granted: 2019
Completed: 2022
Building Services: Solar PV, ASHP, MVHR, UFH
Build Route: Independently managed with the client undertaking elements of the fit out themselves.
Project Manager: Fabric First Build Ltd
Construction Technique: Prefabricated timber frame with localised blockwork outer skin (for stone cladding). Mass concrete trench fill foundations with Beam & Block ground floor.
Tony Holt Design Appointment: Design and planning, full working drawings, assembly details. Ad-hoc support during construction phase.
The plot was situated within a conservation area in the North Wessex Downs - Area of Outstanding National Beauty (AONB). The prominent site was occupied by an ageing property that provided, at best a neutral contribution to the area. The client had previously attempted to obtain planning in this sensitive location, to demolish and rebuild, but were unsuccessful. Tony Holt Design were appointed to provide a fresh look at the site, which involved revisiting the core principles of the design. The first challenge was to establish whether to remodel or rebuild and the pros and cons to each route. At the early conceptual stage, it was clear that to achieve the client’s brief/expectations, a remodel would fall short, and the new build would provide significant advantages to the end result.
The site had exciting potential but had several obstacles to overcome. We needed to solve the challenges of the Conservation Area and AONB and ensure privacy for the neighbours. We had to consider the impact of a new dwelling on this site because of the flood risk zone surrounding the river nearby. The river was also a Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI) and there was a significant amount of trees in the conservation area covered by Tree Protection Orders (TPO). In addition, the character of a Grade II listed building that was situated nearby had to be taken into consideration.
The design adopted a building form, shape and position that responded to the movement of the sun throughout the seasons. This captured the best aspects across the site. The majority of the glazing was positioned so that it wrapped around the rear (southeast) and side (southwest) elevations. With an outlook over the wider landscape. Glazing to the north which overlooks the immediate neighbours, was limited to secondary spaces, bathrooms and en-suites. This allowed for obscure glazing. The north elevation however would be one of the first views upon arrival. It was important to create architectural interest and a hierarchy that would draw you in. The use of corner glazing wrapping around the double height entrance hall and first floor achieved this successfully.
The main family living spaces (Kitchen, dining room and family room) follow the natural sun path and wrap around the rear and side garden. This still allows the occupants, areas of private amenity to enjoy. The formal living room receives considerable amounts of natural light throughout the day.
Externally the palette of material proposed, consisted of natural stone and cedar cladding. With small areas of render under a natural slate roof. This design choice, allowed the home to sit comfortably within its natural surroundings.
Client Testimonial:
“They took time to get to understand the extreme sensitivities of a very challenging and limited site, helping us to balance the decision between remodelling and rebuilding. Our meeting with the planning officer and conservation officer was excellently handled.
After 18 months of unsuccessful negotiations with another architect, they managed to navigate through the planning process with reasoning and skill, somehow satisfying the expectations and needs of the local authority whilst still delivering our brief. We are absolutely delighted with the final result. Our building has been tracked by the whole village and is something of a point of interest to passers-by with overwhelming approval of the result.
Joe and I are extremely grateful for the attention to detail and outstanding support during the build process, working well with all parties. We couldn't be happier with the end result.”