From time to time you come across a perfect site. This existing forestry cottage is one such place. Nestled into the periphery of the forested hillside with beautiful views South and West down the valley. Sheltered with views aligned with the direction of the sun.

The house itself was clearly conceived and well-built but was cellularised and small. It also didn’t make of the site what the new owners wanted it to. The house needed to be repurposed for a new type of inhabitant. What they wanted was a more organised and legible building with open plan living spaces, a social heart and more discreet bedrooms and living spaces to accommodate their family’s private time.

The proposal created a sunny south facing entance with circulation spine that connects the social living spaces with the private ones offering views across the valley as you move between the two. The main kitchen living dining area was a new block replacing the existing garage and becoming the principle feature of the house with large glazed gable pointing towards the views and sunshine. I was careful to retain the character of the building with its clipped eaves and pointed gables as it seemed so at home in its context when I first saw it.

Hopefully the challenges of self building will be rewarded with inspiring views and warm comfortable living space when all the work is complete and nature has time to settle back around.