Our clients have a young family and outlined their need for a SUPER ECO HOUSE that tackles the challenges of a steeply sloping, North facing forested site.
Birch Haven is conceived as a sympathetic, low impact, vernacular inspired contemporary dwelling. Comfortably nestled in a natural tree enclave, the dwelling is sited to allow maximum dappled light into the kitchen which is conceived as the heart of the home. This space central to living, cooking and socialising activities.
Here, more light can fill the double height void space to overcome the natural shade of the site. This reduces need for artificial lighting and maximises solar gain. Openings have been limited on the North elevation to retain heat.
The half cut section allows a carport under the main body of the house which eliminates the introduction of a second garage building. The retaining wall bleeds into and connects the house with the landscape. Cut and site removal is minimised by stepping the section. This reduces excavation and site scarring. Siting the dwelling to the West of the site frames, celebrates and protects the stunning ancient Sweet Chestnut tree on site, preserving and framing the tree for future generations.