Black Pond Lane - Sketch Architects

As a bit of background about the house and project - we have included a brief description below:

Sketch Architects were approached to design a new replacement dwelling on a steeply sloping site in Farnham, Surrey. We initially investigated retaining, in part, the original building but structural examination determined that the existing building fabric was not fit for purpose. The client stated in early discussions that sustainable design was a high priority. They also wanted a building which related to its verdant setting and be finished in natural materials, with glazed openings responding to the elevated views over the Surrey countryside.

In order to achieve this the building envelope was designed to be super-insulated, with an increased level of air-tightness. On the south facing façade PV cells have been positioned on the pitched roof which are linked with other key elements of the building's mechanical infrastructure including an MVHR system, an Air Source Heat Pump, and a battery for the storage of energy generated on site. The building therefore is entirely electric, much of it from the integrated renewable sources, and uses no natural gas.

The ground floor of the building predominantly houses the living areas, dining space and kitchen, all of which are open plan. This space is punctuated by a bespoke steel and timber staircase which rises up through a double height space above the living area. Sleeping spaces are positioned on the first floor.

A separate snug room is located in a ‘pod’ structure connected by a glass link and characterised as being clad in charred timber with a sedum roof, which contrasts to the natural larch and zinc standing seam on the main building. Exposed glulam beams are expressed within the ceiling adding an additional layer of detail and texture in this space.

If you could let me know if this would be of interest to Dwell. We are really proud of this project and excited to be able to share it with the public, hopefully inspire and persuade more people to build and live more sustainably.