The clients have been long-standing customers for over twenty years, during which time we have delivered a variety of projects across their farm holding. These have included multiple change-of-use schemes at the main farmstead, supporting the growth of their diversified pet hay and straw business, as well as the conversion of several buildings that are now successfully rented out, including a café.
The project site originally contained an older bungalow that had been occupied for many years by a former employee. Once it became vacant, it was clear that the existing structure was no longer viable for repair. A replacement dwelling offered a far more sustainable and forward-thinking solution, particularly as it provided an opportunity to make better use of the generous plot. The original bungalow sat in the corner of the site, whereas a new design could respond more effectively to the landscape and unlock the full potential of the setting.
The rear of the plot is especially attractive, with extensive native trees leading into areas of species-rich grassland of high wildlife value, all within the ownership boundary. Several outdated and unattractive domestic outbuildings were also present on the site, and their demolition combined with the footprint they occupied helped justify a larger, more efficient replacement dwelling.
Our brief was to design a new bungalow on this woodland edge location, on the outskirts of the village. Initially the intention was to produce a simple design for a new dwelling for sale, however a change in circumstance for the client meant that they required a single-storey home for themselves to ensure long-term accessibility, so the initial designs were altered to provide something bespoke and tailored to their needs yet with enough commercial appeal to ensure strong marketability should their circumstances change again. This also aligned well with the planning case for a replacement dwelling with minimal impact on neighbours and the quality of the site.
The proposal organises all principal living spaces and the main bedroom along the southern elevation, capturing views into the woodland and providing direct access to it. The entrance and ancillary rooms sit to the north, ensuring good privacy for both the clients and their neighbours. A modified L-shaped layout was adopted, with a generous open-plan living area at its heart. Monopitch vaulted ceilings were introduced to maximise daylight, create volume, and frame views into the trees.
The external material palette was chosen to integrate the building seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Vertical timber cladding will weather gracefully over time, blending the structure into the woodland, while a slate-grey zinc roof complements the low-pitch design and visually anchors the building to the site. Slim-frame aluminium windows allow as much light and natural ventilation as possible, while the shade provided by the woodland helps reduce the risk of overheating.
The planning application process was protracted. While happy with the design, the nature of the site, which is one of the main assets for the proposal, meant that there was a particular need to demonstrate that the proposals would not harm the woodland nor have a detrimental effect on local wildlife. Expert advice was obtained to support the application and the design was modified to provide better environments for the local fauna. The assistance of the Local District councillor has also proved valuable.
Planning permission was obtained showing the advantages of a planning and design team working together and using their network of specialist contacts.
