Project Information:

This project, located in the South Cambridgeshire village of Foxton, is for a three-bed family home designed in an elegant blend of cottage and prairie style dwelling. Tucked away from the main road, the design is subtle and uses proportions and detailing to create an elegant design. The materials, scale and massing draw upon the surrounding area to present a high quality design that enhances its environment and brings life to a plot of underutilised land, whilst taking into account the needs of the family living there.

The first volume you interact with upon approach takes a contemporary twist on the traditional pitched-roof cottages that characterise the local vernacular. The design combines red brick with a sleek zinc pitched roof to create a striking contrast that honors local architecture whilst feeling modern and fresh. A continuous brick soldier course wraps around the base of the house, adding a subtle yet refined detail and defining the lower level with a clean, horizontal line. The windows are recessed with stepped brick reveals, adding depth and texture in a way that marries traditional craftmanship with a modern approach. Traditionally styled windows with central mullions are incorporated to further reflecting the charm of local cottages. Meanwhile, larger openings to the southeast ensure the space remains bright and open, creating a welcoming atmosphere throughout the day and provide inspiring panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

Adjacent to this, sits a single storey prairie-style volume where the living spaces are located. This design is distinctive for its strong horizontal lines and geometric forms, which aim to embrace the plots natural surroundings. A slim-profile metal roof extends from the wall plate at varying levels, creating layered overhangs that play with depth and enhance passive solar control, particularly along the south-facing walls, whist also providing shaded areas for outdoor seating. The inclusion of sedum roofs not only add visual interest but also create habitats for pollinators and insects to support local biodiversity.