March 9, 2022
by Ben Smith
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Background Jamie and Nicola asked us to convert their dilapidated agricultural barn into an exciting home which would suit their young family. Design The ambition was to respect the existing barn whilst creating a home where their children could be … Continue reading
December 15, 2021
by Ben Smith
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We designed and were successfully granted planning permission for a New Community Sports Pavilion on the Glasshouse Playing Grounds in Combe Down, Bath for Glasshouse Academy. The mission of the Academy is to provide youngsters, community groups and local sports … Continue reading
December 15, 2021
by Ben Smith
Comments Off on Glasshouse Academy opening in Bath Life
After successfully getting planning approval for Glasshouse Academy George and Ben were delighted to be invited to the recent opening. George noted “this is an inspiring project that will bring much needed sporting opportunities to Bath youngsters. We are certain … Continue reading
August 23, 2019 by Ben Smith
We were delighted to receive the Winner of Best Built Private House by Worcestershire Society of Chartered Architects at the RIBA Worcestershire Architecture Awards 2019.
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August 23, 2019 by Ben Smith
Chris and Stephanie approached us to design a contemporary and sustainable, oak framed house in their garden which they could move into after their children had left home.
Following extensive discussions with the local planning and conservation officer the curved design forms a serene backdrop to the garden as well as sitting comfortably within the setting of the Grade II* listed neighbouring St Laurence Church and Alvechurch Conservation Area.
With brick walls that extend out into the garden, and tree like columns a sense of drama is created within the the open plan kitchen, dining and living space whilst large doors spill out onto the garden. Beyond the kitchen, the bedrooms and backup spaces are on two storeys with larder, laundry, boot room and study ensuring that Wychwood house is a relaxed yet functional place to live in.
Natural materials such as cedar cladding and bamboo are used which will weather gracefully, whilst a 4kWp PV solar array generates electricity. The green oak frame draws on traditional craft framing techniques whilst giving the impression that oak trees form part of the living space.
This is a house that is sensitive to its setting, and sustainable in its operation sitting gracefully within its garden providing a high quality addition to its heritage setting.
Client: Chris & Stephanie Miall, Wychwood House
Designed by: George Batterham, Ben Smith
Oak Frame by: Carpenter Oak
Built by: Bickford Building Services
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July 26, 2017 by Ben Smith
This distinctive house involved replacing an existing bungalow with a building that makes the most of its dramatic views towards Wells cathedral and Glastonbury Tor beyond.
The design originated from an idea that the solid walls of the house emanate from the hillside whilst the floating curved roof mimics the rolling Mendip hills. A circular drum demarcates the entrance and provides a sense of arrival whilst views to the South of the Cathedral are framed with a large circular window upon arrival. Large South facing glazing also maximises the views of Glastonbury Tor and the open landscape to the West over Stoberry Park . A covered terrace provides a sheltered south facing al fresco dining area.
Technical
Well insulated walls and roof provide the backdrop to the dramatic curved roof which is supported on larch glulam timber beams and columns produced locally at Buckland Timber’s yard in Devon. A rainwater tank collects water for use in the garden.
Designed by: George Batterham, Ben Smith
Built by: Chivers and Co. Ltd
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