Merlewood, Cotswolds

Back to New Builds
Category: New Builds
Location: Cotswolds
Client: Private
The brief: To obtain planning permission for a replacement dwelling in a very sensitive location at the foot of the Cotswolds, situated on the Cotswold Way footpath. The Clients wanted the dwelling to use traditional materials but with a modern twist and to be a modest 4 bed replacement property of one and a half storey height. The design was to take full advantage of the views which extend across Cheltenham, Gloucester Tewkesbury and the Malvern Hills.
Key features:

The site was occupied by a very poor quality 1960’s bungalow on an elevated flat platform. To the north, the property benefits from spectacular views, whereas to the south it is surrounded by steeply wooded slopes.

The final design creates a 4-bed property with large open plan living spaces which allows the occupants to sit back and enjoy the amazing views across the county and further. Externally, the design utilises traditional Cotswold stone walling at ground level with vertical cedar cladding at first floor, this allows the property to blend seamlessly into the landscape, particularly during the winter months. A large feature glazed window is positioned on the principal northern elevation and further enhanced by glazed zinc dormer pods on other upper level windows.

Our role: To work closely with the Client to obtain planning approval and building regulations consents and to produce the necessary drawing package and documents to support them in delivering the construction.
Timeline: Appointed July 2019, pre-application advice sought from the Local Authority during autumn 2019 with a planning application submitted during November 2020.