Private Homes

We particularly enjoy the challenge of private houses, this being the sector where the client has the most direct personal, financial and emotional commitment to the project.

The client may start with a very clear-cut brief - possibly a straightforward site on which to build a new house. But often the situation is far more complex: needing an extension to the existing property - perhaps a bigger kitchen, extra bedroom in the loft, or conservatory; having a site with an existing adequate but uninspiring building, so considering whether it is better to demolish and start again or to creatively use what is there; looking at a potential site or barn for conversion but not sure of its feasibility; wanting an 'eco-house' but unsure how cost effective it will be to incorporate green technologies - eg wind, solar, ground-source energy; having a dream but no site... and so on.

We explore ideas at feasibility level and also produce imaginative responses to very varied briefs, coming not from a pre-fixed 'house-style' which is imposed on the client but from an understanding of their very specific aspirations and ideals. The results are a broad range in building character and style, from neo-vernacular through to highly contemporary, the common thread being thoroughness and quality.

As well as wide variety in clients' aspirations and lifestyles, there is as much variety in how they like to realise the final design, from those who like the idea of self-building but need help on the way, or those who have a 'friendly builder' who they trust for practical delivery but need essential early design input and perhaps help over Planning and Building Regulations hurdles, through to those who require a full architectural service from inception through to finished building. We can cater for all, and are always pleased to discuss options at an early stage.