AJ Design has successfully obtained planning permission for a unique looking new house in Bideford, Devon. Despite being within a mile of the town centre this heavily wooded site lies within a protected area of designated open space.
Development within these green spaces is strictly controlled to preserve and retain their character. Initially the planning officers were very negative and indicated they would not support a planning application for any works on this site. Not deterred we put together and submitted an application for our client, which has just been approved. In summing up the planners stated the proposed works ‘would not diminish the amenity value of the site’ and that the whole ‘area would be enhanced by the addition of this unusually designed dwelling.’
Where possible habitable accommodation has been kept away from the north elevation, which is closer to the main A39 road and the public footpath. This helps create a noise buffer to lessen the amount of traffic noise and reduce potential privacy issues.
As the first floor will benefit from more natural light the main living accommodation has been placed upstairs. Natural light will be further enhanced by the use of patent glazing to the roof. This will flood the living accommodation and central staircase core with daylight.
The new house has been arranged with all the sleeping accommodation on the ground floor, which will be naturally darker due to the dense trees surrounding the site. A hexagonal footprint, mimicking an old toll house, has been proposed to give the cottage in the woods an unusual quirky design.
