Overcoming planning objections to create a contemporary new build

We were invited by the homeowners to consider options for their tired 1950’s property, following a previous failed planning application with other architects. It quickly became apparent that a new build home was going to be a cheaper and better option than refurbishment, the challenge being to secure planning consent for a contemporary dwelling in a sensitive and predominantly traditional neighbourhood.

Absolute Architecture designed a new contemporary family home, that is designed to reflect some of the traditional building forms and materials of the area, in a contemporary and exciting way. This house flows seamlessly and adapts to different outlooks and views to create a relaxed ‘broken plan’ home. Planning consent was secured at the first attempt and Absolute Architecture managed the construction under a traditional main contractor build contract.

Location: Streatley on Thames, Berkshire

Materials: Western red cedar cladding, grey render, aluminium windows, natural flint landscaping

The clever aspects: The interior of this house is cleverly planned to provide constant points of interest in a seamless flow of space, a welcoming hallway with a fireplace, transitions seamlessly into an open kitchen and seating space, down to a sunken dining area that opens onto a concealed courtyard and up a stunning double height staircase to a lofty landing space. Guest accommodation and a small office is cleverly tucked away. A single storey green roof section breaks down the massing of the house and floods the interior with natural light.

Friends on the project:

• Helix were the main contractors
• Velfac provided the glazing
• Vastern Timber provided the cladding

We love:

We are pleased that we managed to secure a difficult planning consent for an exciting building. The feedback from local residents is fantastic, they love the house and the landscaping and think it makes a really positive contribution to the neighbourhood. The homeowners love living in this house, it’s just a very nice place to be and brings constant delight.