COUNTRYSIDE DREAM HOME
House size 241m2 LocationDorset ArchitectOrme Build It Awards 2022 Winner Best Architect/Designer for a Self Build Project
Set in a gorgeous countryside location, Somerset Gate is home to Stuart and Triff Skepelhorn. “Building our own home has been a life’s dream, so it was important we found a team who could empathise with our vision for the plot and sympathetically expand on it,” they say. “Orme listened, solved problems, opened our eyes to new possibilities and delivered a home that works on every level.” Orme was involved from inception to completion, creating a three-bedroom dwelling surrounded by trees to help root the house to its site. The modest project’s angled wings and playful upside-down living arrangement open up views across the landscape, while a curved floorplan maximises space and defines the zones.
CHARACTER & CHARM
House size 205m2 Construction method Oak frame & SIPs Location Somerset Build cost £487,420
COLIN POOLE
When Tony and Jo Hogg’s garden was deemed suitable for a new home via the council’s local housing need, they jumped at the opportunity to create a bespoke property. Tony, a structural engineer, was heavily involved with the design stage, working closely with their architect, John Thompson. They were after a barn appearance with contemporary details, opting for a green oak frame for the character with SIPs encapsulation for accuracy, speed of construction and insulation. The Hoggs project managed, sourcing local, traditional or low maintenance products wherever possible. Although they’re delighted with the result, Tony and Jo’s initial build budget did get stretched and they weren’t able to borrow as much as they needed, which made cashflow difficult. But it hasn’t put them off, as they’re already planning self build number two!
TIMBER FRAME ECO BUILD