Planning permission achieved for a replacement, low energy dwelling for a rural site near Blandford, Dorset. The scheme accords with the NPPF ‘Paragraph 84; (criterion e)’ whereby it demonstrates exceptional design quality in a rural area that would significantly enhances its sensitive setting.

The brief was to create an elegant and environmentally friendly new home for the stunning setting, the architecture had to be appropriate in terms of function, aesthetic and budget but above all, the building needed to be wholly appropriate for the sensitive location.

Designed using Passive Solar principles and carefully selected materials, the property is intrinsically low energy. By introducing large glazing, the design permits solar gain in winter months to reduce the need for heating, with large overhanging eave provide shading in the summer months to minimise heat gain. To achieve natural ventilation roof windows and optimise vents are carefully added throughout the dwelling. The placement of the outdoor swimming pool, on the garden terrace, is also carefully planned to reduce the heat in warmer months. Additionally environmental strategies for the dwelling include adding P.V / Solar inserted within the roof parapet, and adding a system to re-distribute the rainwater for watering plants.