An expert HollandGreen on the challenges faced in creating this home known as The Hide
The Hide: Overcoming Challenges to Create a Contemporary Home in an AONB
Transforming a dilapidated bungalow into a stunning contemporary home within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) came with its fair share of challenges. The resulting property, now known as The Hide, beautifully marries the demands of sensitive site constraints with a modern design that embraces its surroundings. In this feature, James Hurst, Associate Director of Architecture at HollandGreen, explores the obstacles faced and the innovative solutions that guided this ambitious project from concept to completion.
Navigating the Site’s Steep Gradient
One of the first significant challenges was the steep gradient of the site. The natural contours of the land could easily have been seen as a limitation, but the design team chose to embrace them. The solution? An “upside-down” house, with the main living areas on the first floor taking full advantage of the spectacular views across the surrounding countryside. This allowed the architects to incorporate double-height and vaulted ceiling spaces, creating an airy, open environment that feels expansive and light-filled.
The lower level of the home, where the bedrooms are located, benefits from floor-to-ceiling glazing, allowing natural light to flood the space. Large windows on this level also create a seamless connection to the landscaped gardens, making the lower floor feel just as inviting and connected to nature as the upper level.
Sensitive Design in a Stunning Landscape
The Hide is located within an AONB, which made respecting the landscape and its historical context even more crucial. The design process had to be carefully managed to ensure that it would sit gently within the surrounding countryside without overpowering it. The challenge was to create a contemporary home while respecting the established local character and architectural heritage.
The location of The Hide, situated near a Grade II listed barn, posed additional challenges. A key consideration was that the new house could not exceed the height of the original bungalow, ensuring it would not interfere with sightlines or detract from the barn’s visual prominence.
Given the site’s sensitive location and surrounding context, the decision to maintain the original footprint and roofline was crucial. Not only did this respect the architectural and environmental significance of the site, but it also ensured that the design would be more likely to gain approval from both the council and local planning authorities. While this approach posed its own challenges, it allowed the design team to work within the constraints while still achieving a bold and modern vision.
Materials and Sustainability
The decision to use locally sourced materials and focus on sustainable building practices was integral to the design of The Hide. The building materials were chosen to complement the local vernacular while also providing a contemporary twist. The use of Corten steel, charred timber, and Crittall-style glass was carefully considered to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the home. These materials create a striking contrast against the natural surroundings, while still remaining sympathetic to the area’s character.
The team also paid close attention to sustainability. While the home doesn’t fully meet carbon-neutral standards, it does incorporate high energy efficiency measures. The use of a gas-fired boiler, wood-burning stoves, and airtight construction ensured that the home was comfortable, with excellent energy performance. The sustainable building materials were chosen to support these energy efficiency goals, reducing the environmental impact while enhancing the overall design.
Privacy and Openness
Balancing privacy with openness was another key challenge in the design of The Hide. The south-facing elevation, which faces the road and public footpaths, was designed to ensure privacy. Waist-height windows provide just enough daylight and ventilation while maintaining seclusion from the street. On the opposite side, the north-facing elevation is more open, with large expanses of glazing offering uninterrupted views of the fields and providing a stronger connection to nature.
Exposed Structural Features
A striking design feature of The Hide is the exposed Glulam roof structure. The tie beams and bolts were deliberately left exposed to create a more slender, open space. This architectural choice not only adds to the design’s aesthetic but also enhances the sense of height and openness, giving the interiors a light, airy feel.
The Rewards of Collaboration
Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of working on The Hide was the exceptional collaboration between the architects, clients, and contractors. The team’s collective enthusiasm and commitment to the project made the entire process a positive and fulfilling experience. From navigating the challenges of planning to realising the client’s vision, The Hide stands as a testament to what can be achieved when creativity, expertise, and teamwork come together. The result is a contemporary home that feels at one with its environment, offering both privacy and openness, while embracing modern design within a historic and natural context.
