Hallaton House.

Project Overview

Due to the nature of the application, the dwelling was to sit adjacent to the clients existing cattle farm. By visiting and analysing the farm, and the way in which our client worked and used their home; we were able to decide on the optimum plot within the farm to create a plan that dealt with the idiosyncrasies and planning requirements of the site. The plot was chosen to make the most of the natural contours using a retaining wall and planting scheme to the rear of the dwelling giving a private enclosed amenity space that block out the bitter winds. The T shaped form of the plan helped facilitate this private rear garden, whilst also providing a grand main entrance with a site line directly to the farm. Within this form, we took the approach of separating the private and public areas with internal informal zoning of the rooms. The elongated form houses the private area of the dwelling, where we encompassed a split level living area with a kitchen diner. We allowed for large glazed sections within the South elevation with the intention to maximise the incredible views on offer whilst simultaneously creating a symbiotic relationship between internal and external areas by creating a seamless transition via sliding doors and level access. The south facing glazing also meant that we had to contend with solar gain issues and therefore a natural relief was added at ground floor to provide shade in the summer months, whilst still allowing sun in the winter months. At first floor, this is dealt with by the use of deep window reveals and timber louvres on the windows. To the north face, slot windows are placed in a rhythmic format to allow for a gentle shadow play in the summer evenings across the ground floor and first floor landing.

Through our multidisciplinary approach, we were able to gather our relevant team members together throughout the early stages to appraise the farm as a business, justify the needs of the business and to understand the restrictions around planning policy and specifically agricultural planning policy. By appraising our clients brief against the requirements outlined by our internal team members, our initial concept was created

The form allows for a dual aspect with one elevation conforming to a traditional farmhouse shape, while the elongated elevation allows for a more contemporary residence. The materials chosen for the dwelling take influence from the existing farmhouse, utilising ironstone local to the area.

The dwelling has now achieved planning consent, with minimal conditions attached. We have now entered stage four and are starting to produce the technical design package for the client as well as providing further plans for the discharge of conditions application.