Self Build Home

As Founder Members of the Association of Self Build Architects, we work with many clients who have chosen to self-build. Our Client Purchased a dilapidated property in a prime location and chose to build their own home with the help of designs from Mathewson Waters Architects.

The plot was in an area of restricted development, and the existing property was single storey and of very modest proportions. Accordingly, MWA had to adopt a strategic approach to obtain planning consent in various phases. MWA carried out an analysis of all surrounding properties in order to demonstrate that the scheme was not disproportionate in scale to its neighbours, and the LA accepted the proposal.

The proposal aims to form a coherent design solution that enhances the appearance of the locality and the relationship between the dwelling and the site. A modest replacement home repositioned at the northern end of the of plot affords distinct advantages over the existing single-storey, timber framed detached property. With a gradually upward sloping site the proposed property sits more favourably against flood risk issues. By repositioning the dwelling away from adjoining property to the south, which is positioned in close proximity to the boundary, the main garden becomes more beneficial for to the client. A modern, open plan ground floor with level decks to take best advantage of these views and orientation.

Upper floor rooms set within the roof space in a similar manner to other dwellings within the vicinity, couples with the shallow pitched roof and low eves level, the proposal complements the context of the site and surrounding area. Re-establishing the general character of the street scene with the use of traditional materials appropriate to the location. A Holistic Approach to the proposal aims to achieve the optimum solution that balances the provision of appropriate accommodation and the external aesthetics.