Meldon

A new three bed home, exemplifying open plan living and double height space, full of natural light

Meldon is situated near RSPB Minsmere, which created a stunning backdrop for a replacement dwelling that is energy efficient and sensitive to its natural surroundings. Built on the footprint of the original bungalow, the floor plan has remained compact, but the house has been completely transformed. Swapping from masonry to light weight timber frame construction, we added a first floor while retaining the existing foundation and ground slab, making the most of the carbon already embodied in these parts of the structure.

The random width larch cladding is carefully detailed to give the simple pitched roof form clean, crisp edges. Floor to ceiling glazing and roof lights bring natural light into the double height living space and mezzanine floor above. A half height board marked concrete wall separates the living room from the kitchen and acts to absorb and radiate heat from the wood burner. The structure provides a striking centre piece and a cosy seat in the dramatic double height space.

The transition from the double height living room into the lower kitchen creates two distinct functions while maintaining an open connection. A snug accessed from the main living space provides a cosier spot for relaxing in a more intimate setting. Carefully considered joinery on the first floor adds a pop of colour to the neutral and minimal material palette.

The house is fitted with a Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery system (MVHR) which provides continuous pre-heated fresh air for a more thermally efficient dwelling.

Contractor: Avoncrown

Structural Engineer: Superstructures

 

Photographs by Alex Parnell