Mill Lodge

The design takes inspiration from the many traditional coach houses within the town, but does so as a contemporary interpretation. Michael Kendrick Architects were responsible for the full design of the house, from concept design through to completion and handover. A significant challenge was presented by the small plot and the contrast of the much larger neighbouring properties, which was resolved by using a two-storey gabled fronted form. The massing reflects the scale and proportion of the adjacent house, and enables it to fit comfortably within it’s setting and existing streetscape.

The house was positioned to the rear of plot to create a south-facing courtyard garden with space for trees to be planted behind the boundary wall, continuing the green buffer between buildings and road which is a key characteristic of the existing streetscape. The ground floor was also raised off the ground in response to the plot’s EA Flood Zone 3 designation, which allows the plot to flood without the house being affected. The house uses a mix of traditional and contemporary materials and construction detailing. The palette of materials is simple and restrained, with the detailing contemporary and minimal. Handmade bricks contrast with the contemporary appearance of the dark grey reconstituted stone panelling, whilst the dark-grey zinc sheeting of the main roof is in keeping with the local vernacular.

The house has a timber framed structure, fabricated as pre-insulated panels off site which allowed for quick site assembly. Hot water and underfloor heating is provided via an air source heat pump, whilst an MVHR system provides efficient ventilation. Generous amounts of glazing also provides good levels of natural lighting throughout.