Etwall, Derbyshire

This individual plot was part of a wider development, on the outskirts of the village with open fields to the front. Our client did not like the traditional proposals on the rest of the development. There were also existing covenants to overcome, which stated the dwelling could only be single storey facing the rear elevation. Our brief was to create a contemporary dwelling which took advantage of the location and views; overcame the covenants; had sustainable building techniques and energy efficiency at its heart.

To start with, we examined the wording on the covenants to maximise the scope. The resultant dwelling was dormer style to the rear and two storeys to the front. Large expanses of glazing were incorporated with vaulted ceilings throughout. A timber frame solution was proposed with ‘green’ features such as grey water recycling.