We’ve gained planning approval in a Suffolk AONB for a project to return a run-down, multi-dwelling property back to its original use as a single family home. 

The house lies within the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The regeneration project called on all our experience designing within AONBs and sensitive areas. The result is a low-impact building that provides space for modern family living. 

The design

Stone Cottage was built around 1900, designed as a two-storey, four-bedroom house overlooking the river Alde. It was converted at an unknown date into two two-storey, two-bedroom houses. Over the years it became dilapidated. 

Our brief was to fully modernise the home and return it to a single dwelling. First, we proposed demolishing the two single-storey extensions at the rear, rebuilding the space with a wraparound porch area for the side access. 

The new extension will have a low profile, designed to compliment the house. It will draw on the vernacular of agricultural buildings in the area, using vertical black timber rain-screen cladding. 

This extension also gives the opportunity for a green roof and improved terracing. Including a sedum wild-flower mix tray system here will soften the building a little into the landscape and its surroundings.

Internally, our design reconfigures the layout back into a single dwelling for modern living. It features an open-plan kitchen and dining area to the rear. Our proposed side access door will create space for a utility area and bathroom.

By demolishing one of the chimney stacks, we can create a larger living space on the ground floor, and larger bedrooms on the first floor. The main bedroom will have an en-suite in the area where the chimney stack would have been situated.

Understanding the AONB

This proposal draws on all the knowledge and experience TAS has gained designing a number of buildings that have gained planning approval within a Suffolk AONB. For example, as well as carefully considering the material palette, we have introduced solar shading to prevent excess light spill at the upper ranges.

By putting forward a low-profile, sensitive design that uses natural materials and soft planting, the regenerated home will have a low impact on the AONB. 

Get in touch if you’d like to talk to us about your project.