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Corner Lane Barn

Exciting contemporary Dorset countryside home with a strong architectural presence.
Location Motcombe, Dorset
Status Planning Approved
Use Residential
Client Private

This bespoke, sustainable house in Motcombe replaces an agricultural barn, with class Q prior approval, with a high quality dwelling under the fallback concept. The design was developed to be sympathetic to its rural setting and its position within the landscape. The facades and interior feature rammed concrete, formed in sedimentary layers, giving a distinct texture and quality to the building, interposed with glazed elements under a grass roof.

stunning distant view of modern home at dusk
view of contemporary house from field
front entrance to modern home
Aerial view of contemporary home

Three elements form the mass of the building, a colonaded living area and a small tower marking the entrance. These forms are joined via a central interlinking space, with glazing allowing light and fresh air to continually penetrate the house. The colonnade creates sheltered spaces between the inside and outside, masking areas of glazing and preventing solar gain.

Sustainability was a key factor throughout the design process, including solar panels, a biodiverse roof, rainwater harvesting, high levels of insulation, thermal mass and a ground source heat pump. Particular attention was paid to the specification of the concrete, selecting products which replace the cement content with more eco-friendly alternatives. The proposed scheme will also re-use existing concrete and steel materials from the existing barn.

contemporary new countryside home
internal open plan modern living area with wood burning and steps to dining area

To the south, a Ha-Ha allows uninterrupted views across open countryside, whilst allowing livestock to remain in the field beyond.

Planning approval was granted following a constructive pre-application process with the Local Authority. Consultation was also undertaken with the Parish Council who fully supported the scheme, being impressed with the green credentials of the building.

The planning officers considered the scheme to represent a high standard of design that respected its immediate setting and was sensitive to the character of the area.

An innovative approach to respecting local character has been achieved, whilst achieving an eco-friendly and energy-efficient scheme”

Dorset Council Planning Office

elevations showing front view of modern house

Floor Plan

Size 390 sqm