This new build thatched cottage is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and within the Conservation Area at Tarrant Monkton, Blandford, and enjoys views over the River Tarrant at the end of the garden.
The house which replaces an existing bungalow was designed as an elongated form with a dramatic glazed gable end facing the river. The orientation ensured that the new house did not obscure the veiw to the river from the existing house originally belonging to the clients.
Oak is celebrated thoroughout this house. A stunning timber balcony extends from the first floor living area. The open plan room features an oak framed vaulted ceiling with exposed trusses. The frame has been constructed using traditional methods and skilled craftmanship.
A thatched roof was chosen for its green sustainable credentials. Thatch, a naturally occurring material, has a low manufacturing intensity as it does not require heavy industry to produce. It also offers fantastic thermal insulation. This, combined with thermally insulated blockwork of the wall construction, air source heat pump and under floor heating provides a house that is thermally efficient and cheap to run.
Originally conceived as a modest 4 bed house, a later single storey extension was added by WDA incorporating a study. The first floor was reconfigured, moving an ensuite bedroom downstairs to provide a larger kitchen diner upstairs.
Completion Date 2010
Size 161sqm