Forest Edge in the village of Alderholt
Brief
Following our appointment, we were tasked with developing a scheme that maximised the development potential of a largely empty site, within the established surrounding pattern of development. The proposals required the demolition of the original, tired, 1950s bungalow that had occupied the centre of the plot.
The client stipulated that he wanted a scheme distinctly different to the traditional understanding of a bungalow, with light, open plan interiors within the living spaces and bedrooms planned cleanly off a generous entrance hallways.
Whilst there was a clear opportunity to create chalet bungalows with additional bedroom accommodation with the roof-space, his commercial advice received indicated that there was, in fact, much greater demand and profitability from purely single storey dwellings
Forest Edge in the village of Alderholt
Project Challenges
The key issues to be resolved prior to developing the design detail related to the site constraints. Having become very unkept and overgrown over many years, the site had developed extensive potential for enhanced ecological interest, requiring extensive ecological survey work to be undertaken and a number of mitigation measures to be put in place.
In addition, there were a few arboricultural constraints, from pre-existing trees, which we sought to retain as part of the scheme. We are always mindful of the architectural benefit as well as environmental and ecological value that established specimens contribute to a development.
Tight, restricted access onto the public highway also demanded careful attention to maintain visibility splays, for which the advice of transport consultants was sought.
The choice of materials contributed greatly to the overall feel of the development. Elegant and wide timber entrance, recessed within generous porches, and large, high quality anodised aluminium windows with slender frames to maximise light, all help create a contemporary architectural character, further enhanced by the crisply detailed, light render and deep eaves.
All the houses sold off plan in advance of completion.
