Beachern wood
This project recently received planning permission within the New Forest National Park. Given the location, which is outside the main settlement boundary, we were limited to extending the original cottage by only 30% of its footprint. As a result, the total available space for the project was 121 sqm. The client expressed a clear desire for a design that combined a modern, open-plan interior with a more traditional exterior. Our challenge was to create an efficient layout that met these requirements while maximizing the use of the available space. The brief was to design a home that would include the following:
A three-bedroom house with a family bathroom and an ensuite for the master bedroom.
An open-plan kitchen, dining, and formal living area.
A private snug for TV viewing.
A utility room and cloakroom.
A new garage and outbuilding to house a yoga studio.
Integrating all these elements into a limited space presented several challenges, but we successfully met the client’s brief. The concept design, which received planning approval in November 2024, reflects a balance of modern functionality and traditional aesthetics.
Year
2024
Existing Site
Symmetry is a key feature, evident in both the front and rear elevations, where the fenestration and gable layout follow a balanced, classical approach. The arrangement of windows and doorways adheres to traditional proportions commonly seen in local homes, complemented by red brick facades with stone lintels and sills—distinctive elements found throughout the New Forest area.
Internally, the design shifts towards a more modern aesthetic, with open-plan spaces that prioritize natural light and functionality. The layout maximizes interior flow and usability, reflecting contemporary architectural principles.
