BECKLEY

The client brief for this project was to create a modern replacement dwelling in the village of Beckley, just outside of Oxford. Being in the Oxford greenbelt, this presented the first challenge in terms of meeting the spatial requirements. Working with the Local Planning Authority, we were able to obtain planning permission for a new house more than double the size of the chalet bunglow it replaced. The design masks its size and volume by creating two distinct elements, one dry stone and one render with a glazed link and entry in between. The layout and design grounds the new house in its elevated position maximises views to the west.

This project used SIPs construction and was a true self-build with the client (and their children!) residing on-site in a large caravan for the build. Fond memories include setting and marking out the blockwork on the foundation ready to receive the SIPs superstructure. The quality of finish rings through with polished concrete floors, prepatinated copper detailing and expanses of glass. We will return to take some photos of the interior!