Replacement Dwelling

CHALLENGE

Savills Architecture were asked to create a new family home that will take cues from its context and respond positively to it. It is to take key architectural features from the building it replaces such as the steep roofs, vertical wood cladding and large gables to respond to the predominantly woodland backdrop that it resides in. It should not be brash, but subtle and in a contemporary way seek to sit comfortably into its setting.

SOLUTION

Designed with the client, virtual methods to design and work collaboratively every step of the way were implemented, resulting in a curved structure that blurs the boundaries between outside and inside.

A brick spine wall begins along the drive and passes through the building, curving as it does so, and re-emerges outside.  To the north of the spine wall are the utilitarian spaces on the ground floor and an out-building that creates a courtyard arrival point and main access into the house.  To the south are the main living areas, all partially open plan with key views east, south and west that track the sun’s path.

To the first floor, rising the curving stairs that sit against the exposed spine wall, are 3 good sized bedrooms and a study, each having its own balcony and view. 

A short walk through the woodland sees a new swimming pool and summer house with a work area , changing facilities and kitchen where swimming and tennis can be enjoyed, or simply to work within the open glade.

RESULTS

The house, outbuildings and swimming pool complex were granted planning permission and Savills Architecture worked with a local building firm to successfully build out the project.