New Build House
Located in West Sussex, this new build family home presents a balance of modern design, comfort, and a deep connection to nature. Set against the backdrop of a serene wooded area and positioned on the edge of a flood risk zone, the design takes into account both environmental and aesthetic considerations, ensuring the home sits harmoniously within its secluded setting.
Accommodation provided is a spacious, open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the view of the tiered garden and surrounding woods, the space creates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. Upstairs, the two double bedrooms offer privacy and tranquility. These rooms are designed to be intimate, light-filled spaces that provide a warm and retreat-like atmosphere.
Externally, the use of Shou Sugi Ban timber cladding aligns with the site’s forested surroundings, while the masonry base ensures resilience in the face of local climate challenges. A key element of the design is its outdoor connection. The tiered garden, visible from the open-plan living area, complements the natural landscape beyond. The design integrates the garden into the home’s aesthetic, creating a cohesive indoor-outdoor experience that enhances the sense of space and tranquility.
The home is proposed to be built with high sustainability credentials with the aim to function predominantly off-grid. The home is powered by solar panels and air source heat pumps, significantly reducing its reliance on external energy sources.
A rainwater harvesting system is integrated into the design, alongside the extended green roof, which helps with temperature regulation. The home’s thermal performance will be optimised through highly efficient insulation and the careful placement of rooflights and large windows, ensuring abundant natural light and reducing the need for artificial lighting. Materials were chosen with sustainability in mind, including locally sourced timber and natural cladding, which minimise the project’s environmental impact. The green roof not only provides durability but also supports rainwater collection, contributing to the home’s long-term sustainability.
By carefully considering the site’s context, the design harmonises with the natural landscape whilst ensuring privacy and maximising panoramic views of the surrounding woodland to create a beautiful family home.