Rarely does the opportunity arise to build a new house in the Green Belt, except as part of a farm. Inevitably such an opportunity attracts attention, causes concern and demands a sensitive solution.

 

This site near the village of Spofforth is approached by a single track unmade road. Former stables had been extended to create a large steel-clad shed, part of which had been used as a dwelling. Planning permission had been obtained for a dormer bungalow as a replacement dwelling when the current owners acquired the property. After close liaison with the planning authority and parish council, a more appropriate development was agreed and permission was sought for a substitute house type.

 

This comprised a traditional two storey “farm house” enclosing a small courtyard at the north east corner of the site to maintain the openness of the Green Belt. Siting and orientation were critical in providing a garden to the south west, a conservatory on the northwest elevation and a courtyard protected from the prevailing wind. The open aspect is enhanced by the use of a “ha-ha” giving clear views from the house and lawn down the field to the west.

 

Constructed in stone with a slate roof, the new house provides about 250sq m of accommodation including conventional living rooms on the ground floor with four bedrooms and three bathrooms above, a store room over the garage, and a conservatory. The only service connected to the site is electricity so a degree of self sufficiency was required. Underfloor heating is supplied by a ground source heat pump with pipework under the field, water is pumped from a borehole and drainage goes into a septic tank. The result provides for flexible family use in a unique environment where traditional appearance combines with modern standards and technology.