The Brief

While the property was initially purchased with outline planning permission for a house, no detailed design had been considered. Our clients were keen to create a home to meet their family's lifestyle and needs. They also wanted to take advantage of the scenic views to the North-East of the property.

Our Approach

Although the site benefitted from outline planning for “access” and “layout”, our client’s desire to modify the property footprint and create a design which took full advantage of the view led us to apply for a new full planning permission, rather than making a reserved matters application. This then allowed us to redesign and extend the outline footprint of the house to create a spacious kitchen, family and dining area opening out to an outdoor balcony area, a lounge, utility room, WC and shower room, plant room, 4 bedrooms including a master with ensuite and dressing area, a guest room with ensuite, and two equally sized children’s rooms with a ‘Jack ‘n’ Jill’ shared bathroom. Additionally, there was provision for a large garage with an additional room above it, which would be accessed via a separate staircase and could be used as a teenage room or space for a B&B in the future.

The design also focused on maximising views from the East and North, with plenty of glass and thoughtful considerations to roof overhangs for shelter and protection. Traditional materials such as reclaimed stone with sawn stone ashlar were used to give the house a traditional feel with a contemporary twist. A steel cantilevered balcony with timber underlay accessed via a steel spiral staircase, along with aluminium windows throughout also added beauty and functionality to the design.

Although primarily a self-build project, our team maintained involvement throughout the project, providing services for the design, planning approval and obtaining building regulations consent, whilst providing ad-hoc advice during the construction and development works.

The Result

A fabulous family home, with a less conventional upside-down design, combining traditional materials with a modern touch and offering breathtaking panoramic views.