Appointed to design a new house in the Blackdown AONB, Somerset

Concept proposal for a single-storey replacement dwelling, responding to site constraints, landscape sensitivity, and accessibility needs.

• Design approach seeks to rationalise and reorganise the existing built form while minimising perceived visual impact within the National Landscape through careful siting, scale, and massing, and delivering a confident, high-quality contemporary architectural response.

• High-quality replacement dwelling designed to sit comfortably within its rural setting, reflecting the aims of the AONB design guidance.

• Landscape-led, restrained architecture, with simple forms and modest massing.

• Single-storey layout prioritising accessibility, adaptability, and long-term usability.

• Internal layout focused on clarity, calmness, and ease of movement, avoiding unnecessary complexity.

• Quiet frontage to the road and northern boundary, with a more open relationship to the landscape at the rear.

• Primary living spaces oriented to maximise daylight, views, and connection to the outdoors.

• Use of durable, low-maintenance materials that weather naturally and complement the surrounding context.

• Strong emphasis on energy efficiency and low-carbon principles, integrated discreetly into the design.

• Annex accommodation provided for a close family member, designed as a complementary and subservient element.

• Overall character intended to feel timeless, understated, and rooted in place.