Self-sufficient home in protected zone

We were asked to enhance an existing treble garage, providing a multi-use level on top, a semi-basement area accessible from the lower level, and the new level accessible from the upper floor.

Changing social trends necessitated part-time parental care, and the ability to work from home. The multi-use level was to accommodate elderly occupants, as well as house a bathroom, office and gym while unoccupied. 

Crucially, the property sat within a protected zone, and the owners were prevented from building new structures. We were prohibited from removing any existing trees and any development had to blend into the surrounding woodland area.

Obtaining arduous multi-storey planning approval for a building solution of adapted SIP panel technology, we were able to create a multi-use building - built in timber using traditional methods - that complemented the surrounding area without amending it. We introduced efficiencies in energy control, and were economic and practical in terms of construction costs and layout.

The building provided essential self-sufficiency and reduced overall daily costs in travel, and an unexpected improvement in health.

The area was a non-development area with many trees and established root systems that could not be damaged or adjusted. Vehicular access was limited and the building had to blend in completely with its surroundings, giving no more than an outbuilding shed appearance from the street, and a family engagement from the rear.