New Dwelling

The principal of this proposal is based on the original footprint of the glasshouse, although increased slightly to allow for reasonable leaving accommodation. The home is single-sided and built up to the existing boundary wall to retain its direct historical reference.

The form of the building is modest and respects the existing neighbouring historical building and context. The two end walls are simple brickwork gables with the front (south) wall containing a mainly glazed façade, echoing the simple frontage to a south-facing glasshouse. The glazed façade allows the building to partially reflect its context, whereas internally, generous amounts of natural daylight fill all the living areas. The masonry frontage is clad in vertical treated timber cladding, softening the front elevation, while the low-pitched lean-to roof restrains the building height to no greater than the former glasshouse.

All of these features unite to produce a minimal, elegant and contemporary design within the curtilage of a historic building. The internal layout of the dwelling is simple, logical and encompasses flexible solutions that seek to maximise space. This includes the established open-plan layout working well with the generous amounts of glazing to provide a sense of openness and connection with the outside and; the adaptability of furniture to allow for additional accommodation space.

As a result, this project successfully delivers a small, low-cost, but high quality residence that positively contributes to the immediate and social context of Southwell, providing a home for Southwell born and bred residents.

Photography by DL Design Studio