EDITORS CHOICE
ADAMS + COLLINGWOOD ARCHITECTS DELIVER DEVON FAMILY ’ S DREAM HOME IN AONB
Building any family ’ s dream home is a challenge that excites those involved . For the family-run Adams + Collingwood Architects , doing so in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty was a particularly engaging commission .
The firm was appointed by Liz and Tristan Stone of Stones Boat Yard in East Portlemouth , South Devon . Known for their inspired designs , the Adams + Collingwood team were immediately excited by the idea of building a home that would function as a practical family residence while also respecting the incredible natural beauty of its surroundings .
“ The Boathouse was an incredibly personal project in many ways . Liz and Tristan were managing the build themselves , creating a family home in the area that meant the world to them . At the same time , it had to fulfil numerous practical purposes while also fitting in with a challenging location . We also knew from the outset that the home would be built by local craftspeople , which meant that the entire design process was led by the way that it would be constructed . An intriguing project from all angles !” Rob Adams , Architectural Director , Adams + Collingwood Architects
The granting of planning permission in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is something of a rarity . In this instance , it was granted because of a unique set of criteria . With Liz and Tristan classed as critical workers in the area , their home fell into the category of an ‘ Occupational Dwelling for a Rural Worker .’ This , combined with the carefully crafted and discreet building design , meant that planning permission was granted when the vast majority of applications would not have been .
The location meant that much of the home would be carved into the hillside for the sake of discretion . This meant , for example , placing the utility room , plant room , cloakroom and garage under a green roof that runs into the natural landscape in a way that is reminiscent of the early Neolithic settlements on Dartmoor . Landscaping was key from the outset , with Landscape Architect Andrew Rathbone working closely with the authorities at the planning stage . The result is that the surrounding natural meadow flows right up to the walls of the house . Over time , the woodland will be expanded and an orchard planted .
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