We are delighted to have gained planning permission for a replacement dwelling on a picture perfect site in West Sussex.
The large, rural site contains a small cottage that has been subject to a number of ad hoc extensions and additions over the years, but is now in a very poor state of repair. The decision was therefore taken to replace it with a new, high performance home that would allow our customers' family to establish themselves in the area for the long term.
There were a number of considerations for the new scheme, including significant ecological elements as well as water neutrality requirements. Bat roosts were discovered in the roof which necessitates a licence from Natural England for the demolition of the existing property, as well as a mitigation and biodiversity enhancement strategy to encourage their return to the site once the new home is built.
The brief from our customers was for a contemporary home that would sit comfortably in the context of the site and surrounding area. There are stunning views out to the west, which inspired the orientation and form of the new home, with those views being enjoyed from all the principal spaces including the open plan living area and the 3 bedrooms upstairs.
Taking inspiration from buildings and design characteristics found in the local area, we worked up a concept design with a simple, vernacular form. A rectangular floor plan and a steep pitched roof run parallel to the road, with a feature catslide roof covering the staircase which pops out of the side of the plan to add interest.
On the west side, a single storey snug with vaulted ceiling protrudes out from the main form of the building, creating a comfortable family space with a huge picture window to frame the view.
A simple material palette of timber weatherboarding and slate roof tiles is given a contemporary accent with the addition of vertical timber cladding to the pop out stair and a standing seam metal roof to the snug and veranda.
We are very excited to get started on the build early in the New Year and can't wait to see this countryside gem in the flesh.
