This original 1950’s council cottage with its south facing orientation was retained to form a south facing courtyard bounded by the new additions. The topography of the sloping site is reflected in the roof profile and the assembly is reminiscent of traditional farm clusters. The dwelling carries on the memory of the site by protecting the heritage of the old cottage reinvented in a contemporary way that enhances the locality. The dwelling was constructed to achieve an A2 rating.
The design approach for this cluster of 28 houses on the edge of a village was to depart from standard typology Semi ‘D’ housing, using triple blocks with individual identity. Maximising the living accommodation over bedrooms, providing 3 and 4 bed houses with independent rear garden access. The materials selected minimise the necessity for maintenance, which ensures that the development retains its fresh appearance.
This contemporary interpretation of a traditional long house forms the edge of a courtyard bounded by stables. The dwelling is one room deep with a protruding vertical circulation that is top lit and opens out at first floor landing to a double height space in the living zone.
A two storey extension replacing a 70's flat roofed addition opens up to the private side of the house with sleeping quarters and a link corridor introducing light into the heart of the new kitchen and music room.
