Speckled Wood - Paragraph 84

Located on the southern periphery of the settlement boundary of Bielby, the scheme proposes the use-conversion of an agricultural piece of land to residential for the erection of a bespoke family home set within a biodiverse landscape. Due to its siting in open countryside, the proposal adopts innovative technologies and robust detailing to justify building in this setting through raising standards by way of high quality, forward-thinking design.

The key habitable wings are strategically arranged around an open central circulation core, allowing for a seamless flow between spaces. These wings are further interconnected through external courtyards formed at their intersections. Originally conceived as a true ‘pin-wheel’ formation, the design has evolved by removing the north wing to enhance views down the site and ensure optimal sunlight exposure for all rooms.

Proposed Roof Plan

Proposed Ground Floor Plan

The design will showcase a sensitive yet robust approach, honoring the agricultural vernacular while integrating seamlessly into the landscape to minimize its perceived mass from public view. Additionally, the scheme embraces innovative construction technologies to support a sustainable and forward-thinking approach to new development.

"When designing in open countryside, it was essential to evaluate the visual impact from the public highway and the perceived settlement boundary of Bielby"

Gavin Watts

A portion of the land will be re-wilded under the guide of the forestry commission which contributes to biodiversity net gain of the proposal and further visual impact reduction. A grey water renewable strategy will be developed at a later stage to work with the natural sloping flood risk zone of the ‘tail’ portion of site.

Landscape Strategy

Speckled Wood would be the first private residential dwelling in the UK to be constructed from 3D-printed low carbon concrete. It presents an exciting and sustainable approach to new build design, raising the standard in increasing construction precision and reducing waste whilst ensuring longevity with the ease of recycling in the future if ever required.

Formal Living Room CGI

Kitchen CGI

Primary Bedroom CGI

Study CGI

A vital element of the proposal has been understanding the notion of the occupier of the land as custodian. To care for and manage this site is paramount in ensuring it is left better off than it was found. The rewards of the site will be the species that are drawn to it as a result of the scheme and the carbon storage it can provide as a small part of a wider climate need.

Project Information

Client:

Private Client

Location:

Bielby, York

Sector:

Paragraph 84 Homes

Services:

Architectural Design, Concept Design,

Status:

Planning

Design Team:

Matt Norris

Gavin Watts

Project Team:

The Landscape Agency - Landscape Architecture and Design

Futures Ecology - Ecological Consultancy

Hollie Barton - Hollistic Planning

HTL Tech Ltd - 3D Construction Printing Technology