The Polygon, New Dwelling in Lower Holbrook
A modest, 3-bedroom dwelling was proposed with a need for contemporary open plan living. The client wanted the opportunity to enjoy views of the surrounding area, but also encouraged development of the house around a central communal area which would unite separate spaces under the envelope of naturally lit and spacious vaulted roof spaces.
The project was submitted under Paragraph 55 (now 79) of the National Planning Policy Framework and faced a rigorous planning process and presentation to the RIBA Suffolk Design Review.
The design concept demonstrates an architectural response to the sites change in levels, the views and the local context and has been brought together with a design brief that speaks of contemporary form and modern living. The massing and sculpture of the design reinterprets local forms, fragmenting them to represent a deconstructed barn as it steps down the site gradient. It is a contemporary dwelling with reference to agricultural form and material.
A simple palette of materials has been chosen to enhance the articulated roof forms and present a carefully balanced design which expresses its internal spaces. The modules of the standing seam zinc roof have been orientated to enhance the articulated roof forms, whilst timber and glass are presented to define the internal spaces. Vertical larch timber cladding enhances the height achieved by the gable ends of each building element whilst charred cedar is used to express the horizontal elements and is complementary to the bold expanses of glazing. The dwellings living room is situated on an in-situ, cantilevered concrete slab which rises out of the hill, enhancing the views from the dwelling and further enhancing the concept of fragmentation.
Awards
- RIBA Suffolk Design Awards: Commended
