WINNER OF THE CHILTERNS DESIGN AWARDS 2021 - BEST MODERN HOUSE AND OVERALL WINNER
This modern, sustainable new build home replaces an existing bungalow in the Chilterns AONB near Frieth, Buckinghamshire. The approach to the design was based upon a passive sustainability approach utilising orientation and sensible design techniques to produce a modern replacement dwelling which minimises energy consumption, acknowledges local vernacular in a re-interpreted contemporary manner and produces an accessible and comfortable family home with crisp detailing using beautiful materials. The generously sized rooms benefit from lots of natural light and the use of traditional materials in a contemporary interpretation ensures the house sits comfortably within the existing context.
The clients wanted to inject some fun into their home with the incorporation of a slide alongside the staircase for their four children (and adults alike!). The design captures the countryside views whilst providing privacy through clever use of angled timber louvres. A collaboration with award-winning architect Heinz Richardson of Buro Nineteen, we have taken on the design from planning and detailed design through to completion.
Photos by Miriam Sheridan Photography
The house is a simple L shape arranged in 2 distinct volumes over 2 storeys separated by the circulation route through the dwelling. This has the effect of minimising the increased mass on the site providing visual interest and enclosing, in part, a west facing external area to the north side of the house allowing solar access in the late evening whilst respecting the established building line on the lane. Both volumes have distinctive mono pitched roofs which provide interest at roof level. The roof on the main body of the house is orientated to maximise the potential for incorporation of PVs to generate electricity. All of the upper bedrooms are planned to take advantage of the stunning distant views over the surrounding countryside to the south.
This is an exemplar dwelling with low running and maintenance costs incorporating high levels of insulation, airtight construction (3.8m3/h/m2) and further potential of PVs at roof level on the southern pitch to enhance the efficiency further. Materials were sourced locally as far as possible to minimise transport embodied energy. An Air Source Heat Pump provides underfloor heating and hot water. A rainwater harvesting system provides grey water for non-potable use to flush toilets, wash clothes and garden irrigation. The house has a water efficiency standard of 105 litres per head per day. Good levels of daylight throughout the house minimise energy consumption from artificial lighting which incorporates LED fittings throughout. The sedum roof to the car port further enhances biodiversity of the site.
Ground floor Plan
First Floor Plan
