We were appointed by Tulloch Residential to design an outstanding bespoke family home with a total floor area of approximately 7,000 sq ft. The ambition was to create a high-quality contemporary dwelling that sits comfortably within its sensitive historic setting.

The site had previously received positive pre-application feedback; however, concerns were raised regarding the potential impact of a large dwelling on the historic garden pavilion located to the north of the site. Designed by Fred Rowntree in 1908, the pavilion was originally built for meetings and garden parties and is now occupied by a local nursery.

In addition, the site is overlooked by both the nursery and a three-storey block of apartments. The design therefore needed to carefully address issues of overlooking, safeguarding privacy for the new dwelling while maintaining a respectful relationship with neighbouring buildings.

To minimise the visual impact on the historic pavilion, the massing strategy breaks the house into two principal volumes, each with a footprint comparable to that of the pavilion. These are linked by a lightweight, single-storey connecting element, reducing perceived bulk and allowing the scheme to sit more comfortably within its setting.

Dominant tiled roofs, brick chimneys and dormer windows provide contemporary interpretations of the local vernacular, grounding the building in its context while maintaining a modern architectural expression.

The internal layout and fenestration are orientated towards the south-facing garden, with generous areas of glazing to the ground-floor living spaces creating a strong connection between inside and out. Deeply recessed, timber-framed windows and entrance doors—including a bespoke external window seat—add warmth, depth and a sense of durability to the overall design.A mix of private, secluded balconies and generous shared outdoor spaces such as a rooftop terrace and landscaped gardens allow residents to enjoy both privacy and community, while taking in views of the surrounding townscape. New planting across the site is carefully designed to provide both visual interest and natural acoustic screening from neighbouring properties, enhancing the sense of tranquillity within the development.

client: Tulloch Residential

architect: brown + company

planning consultant: O’neills Associates