Context

Surrounded by protected trees and rich natural habitats, the site required a thoughtful and sensitive approach. Detailed arboricultural and ecological surveys guided the design to preserve existing trees, hedgerows and wildlife, while native planting and gentle landscaping help the house sit comfortably within its woodland setting.The clients, who had purchased the property a few years earlier, were excited by the challenge of creating a new home from the ground up. From the outset, we explored style and character through shared imagery and mood boards, settling on a clean monochrome palette of white render and dark-framed glazing, softened by warm red brick that anchors the home within its natural surroundings.

Approach

It was clear to me that the house would benefit from being reoriented on the site and stepped back from the street to create a greater sense of openness, in line with Green Belt policy. This new position makes the most of the south-west light and introduces a two-storey rear wing, forming a sheltered terrace for outdoor living and long views through to the garden. By carefully lowering the ground floor levels, the house beds more naturally into the landscape, creating generous, varied spaces and a subtle level change through the kitchen, dining and living areas that enhances light and flow to the terrace — all within the planning limits on ridge height.I demonstrated to the planners that an increase in volume and area beyond typical NPPF Green Belt guidelines was justified through a balanced approach to scale and proportion, resulting in a generous yet harmonious design with large pitched roofs and a double-gabled frontage that sits comfortably within its setting.

Inside, the layout is open and flexible, combining sociable, light-filled spaces with thoughtful provision for multi-generational living, including a ground-floor bedroom and accessible bathroom.Playful glazed details, including a glass landing and switchable privacy glass, bring moments of character and delight throughout, while the principal bedroom opens onto a deep balcony overlooking the woodland canopy.

Sustainability

Energy efficiency was prioritised from the outset, with an air source heat pump and mechanical heat recovery system providing sustainable heating and ventilation.Careful detailing, insulation and glazing specification ensure year-round comfort and reduced running costs, while the building’s orientation maximises natural light and solar gain.

Outcome

The completed home feels calm, balanced and connected to its setting.Light filters beautifully through the spaces, with warm materials and bold interior accents reflecting the clients’ confident sense of style. Bluebells House demonstrates the ability to unlock the potential of complex sites, balancing design ambition with planning policy, environmental care and practical delivery. The result is a contemporary family home that sits comfortably within its landscape, modern yet timeless, welcoming and full of character.