VISTERRA, Somerset
Taunton Deane, Somerset - Paragraph 84
We were appointed in 2022 to secure planning permission for a new dwelling within the open landscape of Somerset.
Our design addresses the unique challenges of a Paragraph 84 submission, which pertains to development in rural areas where planning permission hinges on the high quality, sustainability and innovation of the proposal.
Collaborating closely with Beattie our Passivhaus is predicted to produce more energy than it consumes and is automatically managed by an intelligent control hub.
This new house is generated with a Fibonacci sequence and boasts a low environmental impact, using sustainable technology that reduces its carbon footprint. By including super-insulation, triple-glazing, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery and fantastic airtightness levels, it requires 90% less energy to heat than an average home.
The proposed design is carefully considered to ensure a low visual and environmental impact, blending sensitively with its rural surroundings. Emphasising sustainability, the dwelling incorporates a low-energy design approach aimed at minimising its ecological footprint while contributing positively to the landscape.
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The design incorporates thermal massing to regulate internal temperatures and naturally cool the dwelling during the summer months. Passive cross ventilation ensures consistent airflow, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. The single-storey span enabled the use of pre-fabricated construction, which minimises material waste and streamlines the build process. A fabric-first approach has been adopted, with high levels of insulation and airtightness to maximise energy efficiency and deliver long-term energy savings.
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Client - Private
Status - Planning
Passivhaus Design - Beattie Passiv
Planning Consultant - APW Planning
Landscape Architect - Ian Clarke
Highways Consultant - Mike Bellamy
Ecologist - Quantock Ecology
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£0.5m - £0.99M
