ProjectPivot House
LocationNorfolk
ClientPrivate
ContractorH. Smith & Sons (Honningham)
StatusComplete
A timber-framed Paragraph 84 home in the Norfolk countryside
Pivot House is an exceptionally low energy, low impact family home in the Norfolk countryside. The house sits outside any settlement boundary, hence the design meets the very challenging criteria of Paragraph 79 (now Paragraph 84) of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
A bio-inspired structure
The form of the home originates from the random nature of tree growth. A parabolic arrangement of beams flies from a central spine, inspired by an existing tree at the centre of the courtyard. The innovative timber framed structure fits within a realistic budget, by using locally sourced air dried timber.
Landscaping to enhance the site
The original site was neglected, made up of various scrub plants such as nettles and brambles, and building rubble at the entrance. Biodiversity on site was enhanced, with new orchard planting and screening to the North. The building was also lowered into the landscape, truly rooting into the natural surroundings.
Local, natural materials
The main building was constructed using flint gabions, quarried within a few miles of the site and using reject flints. The size of the flints is variable throughout the building, to mark different zones. This helps the building to blend into the surroundings, while allowing more or less permeability through the skin.
What is Paragraph 84?
Pivot House was built under Paragraph 79 (now Paragraph 84) of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). Known as ‘The Country House Clause’, Paragraph 84 relates to the building of new homes in the open countryside, typically on isolated sites.
Explore our Paragraph 84 homes.
“From the initial designs I was impressed by the creative ability of the guys at Studio Bark, as the building has taken shape we are ever reminded of their innovative architectural talent.”
- Client
