New Build
An inspirational, sustainable, energy efficient family home
On Thursday 10th March 2022, Swale Borough Council’s planning committee unanimously supported officer’s recommendation to approve our 25th paragraph 84 (para 80) exceptional new dwelling within a walled garden at the Mt.Ephraim estate.
Councillors expressed their excitement at seeing such an exciting building coming forward which will also preserve the future of the walled garden. They also remarked at never having read an officer’s report being so enthusiastic of the proposals. It’s the first time officers at Swale have supported a paragraph 84 scheme. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the paragraph 84 policy. What a fitting way to mark it with our 25th consent using it !
The narrative for this project is driven by a somewhat informal walled garden which is draped onto an undulating orchard landscape tapestry. Views into the walled garden from the footpath network reveal a space which never explored its desired purpose. Constructed just prior to WW1 the former glasshouse structures that adorned the walled garden soon fell into disrepair and were later dismantled, leaving little evidence of their existence.
Our design narrative explores the asymmetrical informality of this space, seeking to integrate a home within the walled garden without overwhelming the openness of the garden and presence of the remaining potting shed building attached to the wall. Our Paragraph 84 (Para 84) proposals explore the distinct rhythms of the surrounding orchards. A rhythm of cascading roofs is created which sets up a relationship with the existing building and the wall. This helps set up an intimate series of spaces & moments from which views within and beyond the wall can be enjoyed.
The general openness of the space is maintained from long distance views into the walled garden, continuing to reveal the existing potting shed and maintaining a discreet informality to the setting.
It’s also another project to add to our SAP centurions list, the design stage #epc scored an “A” rating with a score of 100
