This project is a replacement dwelling on the site of a dilapidated estate worker’s cottage. The rural site is located on the Cheshire Plain with important views to Peckforton and Beeston Castles.

A significant feature of the site is a grassy embankment crowned by a mature oak tree. A key design move was to re-locate and re-orientate the dwelling so as to set it into the embankment. In addition to intimately linking house and landscape, this allows the house to face the views and for garaging and driveway to be discreetly concealed.

Currently in detailed design, the superstructure will comprise highly insulated SIPS panel roofs and walls with truss-joist first floor. The brief called for ‘sensible green measures’ and the principal systems will include wood pellet boiler, solar panels and underground rainwater re-capture.

Construction is scheduled for summer 2009.