PROJECTS
Having spotted the perfect plot nestled in Headley, our clients wanted to demolish the existing dated bungalow and build the perfect family home over two floors to make the most of the plot, as well as modern housing design and building techniques.
The build itself took place over 7 months, September – April. Having sold their prior property to invest in their new forever home, our clients lived onsite in 2 shipping containers with their three young children for the duration of the build – so we were keen to make sure the project ran on time for them to be able to move out of the containers!
Working closely with West Sussex based, fiftypointeight Architetcure, the design of the home was refined to meet the client’s vision and budget. Key to this home was the desire to have views over the garden throughout the downstairs.
With a semi-rural location, part of the planning process involved a ‘bat survey’. Luckily for our client, whilst bats were spotted in the area, none were making their home in the existing structure. So, with planning permission in place, it was full steam ahead.
Just before starting the build, having done further research our client decided to alter the external finish. To achieve a timeless look for the home with traditional materials, we moved away from the original render on the ground floor and tile hung on the second-floor finish, to a brick finish. This involved a material amendment with the council before work could proceed. Careful consideration was given to the choice of reproduction clay handmade roof tiles and brick to create a contemporary design using traditional materials.
The design of the glazing was integral to achieving how the home would flow and function for the family. Velfac Alu-Clad windows were chosen, which combine an aluminium external and timber internal, in a slim frame profile. Rather than a traditional frame colour, our client chose Cement Grey, RAL 7033 from a wide range of colours available.
Within the downstairs open plan layout, SmartSystems Bifold Doors were installed to create a corner configuration within the kitchen-dining area, which opens up both walls and allows the beautifully landscaped gardens to connect to the living space.
With an open plan ground floor layout, this created some challenges for the upstairs. The 28 steels used to create the new structure were hidden within specifically constructed deep ceilings, also providing enhanced soundproofing.
Above the open stairwell is a cantilevered bathroom which was designed in collaboration with Littlejohn Bathrooms and features Duravit, Hansgrohe, Villeroy & Boch and Porcelanosa.
We also undertook the landscaping on this project, which included building a curved deck out of scaffolding boards to provide extended entertaining space and views around the garden.
With so much glazing, getting the lighting right in the home was key to ensuring our client’s forever home still had a cosy feel and helped to zone the open plan areas. The Lighting Centre, Guildford designed this stunning chandelier which hangs in the lobby of the home creating a stunning focal point.
The kitchen design needed to be stylish and functional to meet the demands of a growing young family, so we worked with Harvey Jones, to create a flexible space that all of the family could enjoy.
Our clients were delighted to move into their new home and shared their thoughts with us:
As soon as we saw the plot, we knew this is where we wanted to build our forever home. We’d seen some of RM Construction’s work so were really excited to work with them. The whole project ran smoothly and on time – living in the containers is already a very distant memory, now that we get to live in this amazing home. We’d definitely recommend Rhys and his team.
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