Design Detail
The detailed drawings for the building were the work of Simon Clark of leading eco-architects, Constructive Individuals. Simon's influence gives the house its keynote ‘green’ credentials and environmentally friendly agenda. Conserving energy and water were paramount, as was employing renewable natural, resources. The use of carefully sourced vernacular materials — gravels, stone and timber — tie the new build to its historic roots.
The highly insulated post and beam structure sits on a very substantial reinforced raft foundation. The design features long internal vistas (any internal walls are non-load bearing) and a sloping roof system. Steel beams jut out above the lake to carry the timber deck, which is accessed by sliding doors from the open ground floor, to extend the living space. Highly insulated exterior walls are cloaked with a breathable membrane and finished in a combination of mineral render and untreated horizontal timber cladding. Natural slate covers the roof.
Glazing accounts for over 36% of the overall wall area, the majority orientated west, filling the interiors with light and the reflections of the water, enhanced by a palette of natural materials and reflective glass surfaces. Finishes were carefully considered throughout; English limestone, softwood weatherboarding and decking, slate, organic paint colour, and limed oak flooring are the key materials that integrate the contemporary building into its landscape.
The build itself was self-managed by Steve and Phillippa, and came to fruition through the hard work of talented local craftsmen, headed by Mat Pitts of MPK Carpentry & Joinery.
The detailed drawings for the building were the work of Simon Clark of leading eco-architects, Constructive Individuals. Simon's influence gives the house its keynote ‘green’ credentials and environmentally friendly agenda. Conserving energy and water were paramount, as was employing renewable natural, resources. The use of carefully sourced vernacular materials — gravels, stone and timber — tie the new build to its historic roots.
The highly insulated post and beam structure sits on a very substantial reinforced raft foundation. The design features long internal vistas (any internal walls are non-load bearing) and a sloping roof system. Steel beams jut out above the lake to carry the timber deck, which is accessed by sliding doors from the open ground floor, to extend the living space. Highly insulated exterior walls are cloaked with a breathable membrane and finished in a combination of mineral render and untreated horizontal timber cladding. Natural slate covers the roof.
Glazing accounts for over 36% of the overall wall area, the majority orientated west, filling the interiors with light and the reflections of the water, enhanced by a palette of natural materials and reflective glass surfaces. Finishes were carefully considered throughout; English limestone, softwood weatherboarding and decking, slate, organic paint colour, and limed oak flooring are the key materials that integrate the contemporary building into its landscape.
The build itself was self-managed by Steve and Phillippa, and came to fruition through the hard work of talented local craftsmen, headed by Mat Pitts of MPK Carpentry & Joinery.