Located within an Area of Special Character, this new six-bedroom home is nestled on vacant land off a private road, surrounded by woodland and near a historic Roman camp site. The design reflects the distinctive context of the area while taking a more grounded and harmonious approach to its setting. Homes in this region are known for their strong ‘palatial’ presence, but this new residence seeks to integrate seamlessly into its environment rather than dominate it.

Thoughtful Collaboration and Design

The design of the home was developed in close collaboration with the client and through constructive conversations with the Local Authority. Gurmeet Sian, director at Office Sian, describes the inspiration for the ground floor plan as being partly derived from “many meandering walks undertaken through the site, tracing a path from the frontage road to the woodland to the rear of the plot.” This thoughtful approach to design ensures the home’s layout feels intuitive and connected to the land.

Sustainability and Craftsmanship

The exterior’s use of local materials minimises the environmental footprint while ensuring the home feels rooted in its context. The design’s simplicity and attention to detail celebrate craftsmanship and durability, creating a residence that will age gracefully within its unique setting.

Client: Private
Status: On site Construction
Location: Buckinghamshire

Structural Engineer: MHA
Quantity Surveyor: Robert Martell + Partners
Lighting: Connected Abodes
Energy and Sustainability: ProSustainability

Contextual Integration: The home’s design acknowledges the ‘palatial’ character of nearby properties while taking a subtler, more nestled approach within its surroundings. Inspired Ground Floor Plan: Single and double-height internal exposed columns frame views to a secluded southern courtyard and the garden to the west, echoing the natural paths traced through the site. Material Palette: A strict and simple material palette dominated by local brickwork with light and dark mortar joints creates a timeless aesthetic that ties the home to its environment.