Client – Private Client

Project type – Bespoke New Build

Site Constraints – Green belt, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Area of Great Landscape Value

Architect stage – Full Architectural Services from planning to completion

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The client had a refused planning scheme prior to engaging with PRA and had a negative planning response due to the previous design. The new design by PRA ensured the scheme respected the location with regards to the green belt and area of outstanding natural beauty.

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This design allowed for a unique sunken courtyard, which creates a private amenity space for the family, while being a secure haven for the children and creating relief from the prevailing wind and road noise. The building is orientated to allow the habitable rooms to capture south westerly sun and enjoy specific solar gain and sun set.

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The interior design includes a double height entrance space with a cantilevered staircase, with a large roof light above and a specifically located chandelier.

 

The bedrooms are all generous sizes and all contain en suites. The client requested a large family room, which could be utilised for a childrens playroom or easily adapted as a cinema room.

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The low impact design is extended with the incorporation of a green sedum roof, photovoltaics and ground source heat pumps. The scheme responds to both the clients desire to live in close contact with nature together with the concept of making the house almost invisible from the natural surroundings.

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The scheme gained planning with very special circumstances due to the design responding clearly to the local landscape.

Surrey Hills AONB Planning advisor stated the following in support:

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"In my view this application is an inspired response to the AONB. The simplicity and elegance of the proposed design together with the timber clad walls should result in the dwelling respecting and sitting comfortably within its setting. I look forward to seeing the completed building because it may prove to be an exemplar of how to achieve a simple quality designed dwelling in the AONB in a way that minimises it's visual impact".