Being outside the settlement boundary, this project presented a unique planning and design challenge. Located in the countryside where new residential development is rarely permitted, Paragraph 55 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) formed the foundation of the proposal, supporting housing in rural areas only in exceptional circumstances.

The site, that is in close proximity to a listed Mill, had been used as a school. The project replaced a number of dated prefab buildings with a single family dwelling of high quality design with a significantly reduced footprint. This not only enhanced the setting of the listed building, but also contributed to a marked improvement in the character and appearance of the site.

Architecturally, the new dwelling took its cues from traditional agricultural buildings, drawing inspiration from their simple forms, modest fenestration, and natural materials.

Sustainability was at the heart of the design. A traditionally jointed oak frame forms the structure of the house, with highly insulated SIPs (structurally insulated panels) creating a thermally efficient envelope. The dwelling incorporates a mechanical heat recovery ventilation system (MHVR) and an air source heat pump, to minimise energy consumption. A key ambition of the project was to meet all of the dwellings electrical demand through on-site renewable sources, including a micro hydroelectric generator, creating a home that is effectively zero carbon.