Making More of an Existing Site
The starting point for the project was a detached bungalow.
Rather than simply extending the existing property, the developer wanted to explore what could be achieved through redevelopment.
The challenge was to make better use of the site without creating a development that felt cramped or out of place.
The resulting scheme created four individual homes, arranged as two pairs of semi-detached houses.
This provided a significant change in the use of the site while giving each property its own practical layout and identity.
Designing Four Practical Family Homes
Each of the new properties provides three bedrooms across three floors.
Two bedrooms are positioned on the first floor, with the third bedroom occupying the second floor. This arrangement makes good use of the available space and allows the homes to provide generous accommodation without spreading the buildings unnecessarily across the site.
The properties also include an ensuite, family bathroom and downstairs WC.
The intention was to create homes that worked well for everyday family life, rather than simply maximising the number of rooms.
A Development That Fits Its Surroundings
With four new homes replacing one bungalow, the appearance of the development was an important part of the design.
The houses were designed as two pairs, creating a consistent architectural language across the site.
Material choices also helped give the properties a more established character. The proposed materials included Chartham Multi Stock brick, stone detailing, plain red clay roof tiles and timber sash windows.
These traditional materials were selected to help the new homes sit comfortably within their Oxshott setting.
The combination of brick, stone and sash windows gives the development a cohesive appearance while adding detail to the individual properties.
Getting the Balance Right
One of the key considerations was finding the right balance between the amount of development and the quality of the homes being created.
Four properties needed to work together as a development, but each also needed to feel like a proper family home.
The layout, proportions and accommodation were therefore considered together rather than treating the buildings as separate elements.
This helped create a scheme that made good use of the site while maintaining a sense of space between the properties.
Working Through the Planning Process
The proposal required Full Planning Permission through Elmbridge Borough Council.
Replacing one detached bungalow with four new homes represented a significant change, so the design needed to be carefully considered from the outset.
For a development of this nature, planning is about more than simply establishing how many homes can fit on a site.
The relationship between the new buildings, the surrounding properties, the appearance of the development and the overall quality of the design all need to be considered.
Fluent worked with the developer to develop the architectural proposal and manage the planning stage.
From Planning Design to Working Drawings
Once the planning design had been established, the project moved into the technical stages.
Fluent produced the working drawings, structural design and technical information required to take the scheme forward.
This is an important transition on any development project.
Planning drawings show the design that has been approved, while working drawings provide the additional detail needed to actually build it.
Keeping these stages coordinated helped ensure the architectural design remained consistent as the project moved into greater technical detail.
