The Foxhill
A dramatic white wall wraps around the ground floor of this home, defining the footprint and enclosing the charred timber clad volumes which form the main house. On approach this feature wall acts as a backdrop for planting and screens what lies behind, increasing the theatricality of the arrival. The angled wall is peeled away to reveal the glass entrance, and inside long vistas unfold towards the forest and upwards through the dramatic skylight above a generous double height entrance hall.
Project Info
- Location: New Forest National Park, Hampshire
- Cost: £1,200,000
- Designation: AONB, National Park, SSSI, Conservation Area
- Image Credit: Nigel Rigden
Environmental Data
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Energy Efficiency
1 2 3 4 5 6
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Insulation
1 2 3 4 5
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Thermal Mass
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
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Airtightness
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
-
Solar PV
1 2 3 4 5
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Embodied Carbon
1
- Heating/Hot Water
-
Solar Thermal
Yes No
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Rain Water Harvest
Yes No
- Ventilation
-
Energy Storage
Yes No
“As a concept we wanted a building that was modern in design but would replicate the comfort of our family home. PAD had been recommended to us as a team that would be creative but open to the client’s input and sensitivities. Indeed, PAD remained engaged throughout the project, constantly coming up with ideas and suggestions, whether to tackle unforeseen difficulties or enhance the original design.”
. . . Private Client . . .
At PAD studio we care passionately about what we do, good design inspires us and although the role of an architect is bound by professionalism and responsibility, we work hard to ensure that the design process is celebrated and enjoyed by our clients and by us. We are architectural storytellers, and it is essential that every project has a unique storyline that is considerate of the people and place.
For over a decade, we have fully engaged with climate and biodiversity issues, celebrating these challenges as opportunities. We are proud signatories of the Architects Declare network, and the RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge and aim to meet net-zero (or better) whole life carbon for new and retrofitted buildings by 2030.
Designed for a professional couple with young adult children, our clients wanted this home to be able to expand when children and guests visited. Two distinct wings, one which houses the living and master bedroom areas is separate from the children and guest accommodation which can be closed off, ensuring the house retains a sense of intimacy when occupied by only two people.
The relationship between the house and garden is indistinguishable. Each of the ground floor bedrooms has its own terrace which is heavily planted to create privacy and prevent excessive solar gain. A long terrace, connecting the living, dining and kitchen spaces leads to an covered outdoor kitchen, enabling outdoor cooking throughout the year.
“Not only did we find them easy to work with, they also maintained a good relationship with the contractor which is essential in getting over the inevitable stresses and strains that arise on a new build. Our decision to engage them is validated by the pleasure we take in living in our new home.”
. . . Private Client . .