“At 4,000 sq.ft it has a similar square footage to the Victorian house but it is considerably cheaper to run,” says John. “It is extremely well insulated and although we have underfloor heating, it’s hardly ever on.”
They hired Halliday Clark, a stand out candidate, after sending an unusual brief to a number of architect practices. “It was more stylistic than practical but it paid off,” says John. The resulting three-storey house is constructed from blockwork clad with natural stone, render and decorative zinc panels. Particularly impressive is the clever use of an awkward site, which featured a steep drive that had led down to the old house and garage.
The hallway also gives access to the utility room, bedroom four/office and a shower room. The first floor has a large galleried landing with a seating area and views over the valley and there is also a guest bedroom with ensuite, a further double bedroom and a large house shower room.