Split Level House

Warwickshire

Client: Ms S Thomas
Contractor: client's own
Completion: Expected September 2006

This project gained planning permission in a notably traditional area at the first attempt.

Set in a rural environment amongst a small collection of dwellings, the design maximises on its fantastic site and orientation.

The brief which required a large amount of accommodation (eg 4 bedrooms, large living areas etc), along with the surrounding traditional dormer bungalows, led us to a proposal which sets the bedrooms into the ground by half a storey so as to respect the existing ridge line of the neighbouring properties.

Due to this split-level effect, the spatial qualities of the house are very exciting. The kitchen and dining area sit on a mezzanine levels, thus enjoying great views out to the landscape, as well as views down to the living space - facilitating social interaction between the two.

...A seductive ramp descends into the bedroom area, whilst a rising bridge link connects the living and kitchen spaces....

The design wraps a series of cellular spaces around the north and east perimeters which match the time of use of the rooms with the sunlight at that time of day. The living area in the south-west corner of the house enjoys orchard views and maximum sunlight.

A seductive ramp descends into the bedroom area, whilst a rising bridge link connects the living and kitchen spaces. A feature wall emphasises the depth and feeling of descent into the bedrooms on one side, whilst on the living area side it provides invaluable organising and storage space.

The master bedroom area is located on the mezzanine floor to allow panoramic views of the area, as this floor boasts external balconies along the entire east side. This relationship between inside and outside is furthered by a huge glazed slot that is placed at the bottom of the ramp, creating a vista to the landscape outside.

The roof was designed conceptually by Anthony Hunt's structural engineers in London, allowing an interior clear of columns, and a continuous glazed slot which directs daylight down into the bedroom area below.