At first inspection of this site, it seemed almost implausible that it could be made to work, due to the steeply inclined and long access route. Located at the bottom of a valley, with the adjoining public roadway running some way above the actual site for the dwelling, the house was designed to occupy the sloping nature of the ground into which it was to be set. This benefitted the proposal in that it integrated into the natural slope so as to allow an improved design which was not overly reliant on large retaining walls, and as such the overall internal layout of the house itself become much more interesting, since a tiered / split level design developed. The main living areas and kitchen were placed so as to fully exploit the sun path throughout the day, as well as the main aspects of the surrounding valley. With the main entrance being located to the upper side of the design, the living spaces were also allowed to be much more private. Although quite a modest sized dwelling, the internal feel is of much more – created by double height spaces and a gallery / landing area. All of this is finished in a very traditional rural feel – which truly compliments its natural surroundings.
