MARTIN GARDNER
Waterfront living
A couple came to AR Design Studio with a contemporary vision for a home on a plot on the edge of the Bosham estuary within an area of outstanding natural beauty. They wanted to achieve a modern scheme that would sit well in the idyllic surroundings. The team at AR worked closely with both Chichester Harbour Conservancy and the planning department to achieve a sensitive design, despite tough constraints to work within.
Named The Creek House, this unconventional abode subtly draws influence from the geometries and materials of the general vernacular prevalent around the local area, while also achieving a wow factor finish. To come up with the scheme, the architects carried out a series of sketch studies analysing the harbour, establishing a collage of typically traditional pitched roofs that provided the inspiration for this property’s angular covering.
The scheme revolves around the desirable views seen from the site over the harbour. The lower level acts as a plinth to elevate the timber storey, which delicately contrasts with the concrete thanks to its soft, natural feel that will weather and age with the tree lined setting. The ground floor level breaks down into three blocks, creating a sense of protection from the elements, as well as achieving more privacy in the bedrooms.
For more information call 01962 864545 or log on to www.ardesignstudio.co.uk
PROJECT OF THE MONTH
Cork House
Nimtim Architects
This south London property was previously positioned 1m higher than the garden level. To connect the spaces, the homeowners chose Nimtim Architects to develop an extension and renovation scheme. The team created a stepped internal layout, which had the added benefit of forming defined zones for different uses within the revised floorplan. The addition itself is clad internally and externally with cork, chosen because it complements the existing brickwork on the original dwelling and will weather to a silvery-grey over time. The material achieves good U-values without the need for any additional foam insulation. It also absorbs noise internally, is breathable, free from synthetic resins and harmful chemicals, and is fully recyclable.
Aesthetically, the extension features a simple pitched roof with a large glazed pivot door that frames views of the garden beyond. A slot window on the rear elevation aligns with the rooflight over the side extension to bring in plenty of light and views. Pink window frames provide a pop of colour against the cork, and a pale grey resin finish covers both the flooring and the worktops for a clean and modern look. The house has been shortlisted for the AJ Small Projects award 2019.
For more information call 020 8693 0878 or visit www.nimtim.co.uk
Self build scheme set for approval in Cornwall
Plans for 14 new homes, seven of which would be self build, in the Tamar Valley area of outstanding natural beauty in Cornwall are set for approval after receiving a positive recommendation from planning officers. The planners took an enlightened approach, feeling the degree of landscape harm would be slight – and that it would be outweighed by the social and economic benefits the development would bring to the village and the wider area of south-east Cornwall
71%of Brits think all new properties will come fitted as smart homes by 2030, according to research conducted by blinds company Duette. Out of 2,400 people who took the survey, over two thirds felt smart tech could improve their standard of living, agreeing this is the main reason for implementing such technology into a house. Only 6% of respondents, however, currently control heating, lighting or other aspects of their home via a smartphone app.
The most profitable home improvements are revealed