A low carbon home in the Blackdown Hills AONB

Marsh House is a low carbon home nestled deep within the Blackdown Hills AONB. The proposal seeks to create highly personal and contextually sensitive building inspired by the isolated and esoteric qualities of this site.

The clients desire is to create a profound piece of architecture in an enigmatic setting, whilst also allowing the continued management of the woodland. The design consists of 3 bedrooms with an open plan living, kitchen and dining area. A snug, music room and master bedroom are located on the upper floor, within the roof space. Smaller loft spaces located in the very apex of the roof allow for uninterrupted views of the night sky. 

Architecture to reflect the AONB

The form and scale of the building derives from desires to cast a striking silhouette amongst the spidery Goat Willow trees. The kinked plan and tapering roof takes reference from the summer and winter solstices and their seasonal effect on the buildings internal spaces. 

The external expression of the structure strikes a rhythmic hierarchy, whilst creating a dialogue with the surrounding trees. Clad in charred timber shakes, the building has a texture and tone suited to its woodland context.

Low carbon home

Sourcing, testing and making will be paramount for the success of each built component. The ambition is to utilise the site as a material resource. The result is an elegant, low-impact building with exceptionally low embodied carbon.

Interested in building a new home on your land? Find out about what surveys you need here.