Contemporary twist on a traditional form

Where is this property?
The site is located near Brabourne, adjacent to the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Planning was granted for a much larger house: three times the size of the original bungalow.

What’s the design concept for this home?
We brought a contemporary twist to a traditional vernacular agricultural form.The building incorporates two long barn type structures, one for living, and one for sleeping. The bedroom wing is set into the slope of the hill in contrast to the living wing, which floats slightly above the surrounding landscape. The two wings are connected via a top-lit corridor with the main entrance at one end and staircase linking the levels at the other. The kitchen, dining and living spaces enjoy sweeping views across the farmland to the south and share a decked terrace allowing the internal spaces to connect to the outside.

Why did you choose an Urban Front door?
We chose the door simply because of the triple rebate and, in the exposed location, we knew it would always shut properly and weather well. It still works perfectly, and also looks great without being overstated. Simple contemporary design with good detailing and good attractive ironmongery. 

What materials did you choose?
A timber structural frame was prefabricated off site, and clad almost entirely in cedar shingles. A Corten steel projection highlights the main entrance and the Urban Front door is European oak.

Is the finished property sustainable?
The low carbon construction combined with passive solar design, thick layers of insulation, air source heat pump and PV panels ensure the build is highly sustainable.