The clients requirements where quite modest – a two bedroom house with open plan living/dining/kitchen space and a separate space which would provide views North towards the sea and for observing stars – after spending a lifetime in a densely populated urban environment our clients wanted to appreciate what nature had to offer.  The garden was also an important element and a specific requirement was that the house connected with the South-facing garden to maximise views and solar gain. 

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A number of options were explored during the design stage however the chosen proposal really brought together everything that our clients were looking to achieve.  Two pitched roofed buildings arranged in a L-shaped design connected by a flat roof section, one wing for living and the other sleeping accommodation.  Part of the first floor accommodates a sitting room/gym space with large sliding doors where the views North and the night sky can be appreciated.  This layout also creates a formal frontage to the entrance, with an immediate visual connection from the front door through to the secluded garden and woodland beyond.  The beautiful Maple tree, which was already on the plot, creates a focal point from the rear of the property. 

From the outset our client confirmed to us that he wanted to use SIPs construction to create a highly insulated structure, which could be erected quickly and efficiently as the clients plan was to undertake this project as a self-build.  The design also allows for generous glazing to the private side of the house with minimal openings to the roadside elevation. The intention is still to have solar panels installed on the South roof slope and sedum to all flat roof areas.