New build – Bramhall, Stockport

This new build project in Bramhall started when our client purchased a standalone bungalow, within a 2 acre greenbelt plot, on the outskirts of suburban Bramhall, Stockport. Our clients fell in love with the plot at their first viewing, it was unusual to find such a sizable plot (which provided expediential potential to develop) in such a sought-after location.

The bungalow was initially purchased with a view of carrying out an extensive remodel and refurbishment, inclusive of converting the bungalow into a two-storey dwelling. Following our advice, our client arranged for trial holes to be carried out around the perimeter of the bungalow. This highlighted that the existing foundations were not sufficient to support the loads of a first-floor structure.

After careful consideration and a thorough assessment of the pros and cons, our client decided that it would be beneficial to pursue the design of a new build dwelling.

Our client set out from the start that they did not want a “traditional home” and supported us in creating a truly unique design that would test the planning system.

Our client was open to the idea of agreeing an outline brief with us and allowing us free reign to produce some initial layouts. The original train of thought for the overall visual appearance of the property had stemmed from one of our previous new build projects, which our clients had been inspired by. From this outline brief, we strived towards creating a forever home that ticked every box.

Design philosophy:

We initially produced sketch proposals based on a concept floor plan for both the ground and first floor – with our client’s intention of maximising the site as much as possible. Starting with the early collaboration with a planning consultant, we knew we would be restricted to the rules and regulations set out with the national planning policy, under new build properties within greenbelt, which has a strict policy of properties being no bigger that 33% of the original footprint.

Over a short period of time, PJH Architectural Services developed both ground & first floor plans – which looked to incorporate a large open plan kitchen/dining/lounge area with unobstructed views and access out into the rear garden.

One of the main focal points within the property is the large open entrance hall, which provides a gallery landing area at the first floor, this is coupled with a central “open tread” staircase which creates a feeling of openness and provides un-interrupted views directly through the property as you enter through the large off-pivot front door.

A second lounge coupled with large cinema room occupies the left-hand side of the property. The rear elevation at both the ground & first floor, looks to take advantage of the properties rural surroundings and West facing aspects of open countryside. Through utilising large expanses of “slim frame” sliding doors and full height picture windows, we were able to frame views across the rear of the 2-acre plot.

The first floor provides 4 generously sized bedrooms all with en-suites, whilst the principal bedroom provides a large walk-in wardrobe and an external balcony area, taking advantage of the evening sun.

As soon as the floor plans were agreed, we set about taking into consideration the external facade and considering an array of available materials. It was important to our clients that the property provided a “wow factor” but also to create something that blended in with the countryside and was sympathetic to the natural palette within the greenbelt.

With the use of realistic CGI’s, we were able to visualize a number of different external materials in order for the client to make an informed decision relating to the overall design. We collectively agreed on a combination of light grey stone and contrasting vertically laid Cedar timber cladding, complete with a zinc standing seam roof, which our client was keen to incorporate having seen some of our past projects.

From the start of the design, we wanted to ensure that the main entrance into the property created the focal point on the principal elevation, both internally and externally. In achieving this we looked to create floor to ceiling height glazing which is framed out externally via a projecting ‘A’ frame, which is cloaked in a contrasting anthracite grey PPC (polyester powder coated) facade.

The rear elevation combines Cedar cladding with expanses of floor to ceiling glazing as well as a continuous canopy above the ground floor, which helps reduce solar gain and overheating.

Working closely with a planning consultant, we arranged for ecologists to provide bat surveys within the existing dwelling (which we knew would be a planning requirement), we also assisted in coordinating tree surveys to be carried out. This enabled us to compile a detailed set of information inclusive of a design and access statement, which was formally issued to Stockport Council and ensured that our proposals had the best chance of receiving a positive outcome.

Renewable energy:

The intention is to create a highly sustainable property via the potential use of Structurally Insulated roof and wall panels (SIPS), ground source heat pumps (GSHP), a Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery system (MVHR), solar paneling, underfloor heating and water harvesting across the site.

Planning is expected in October 2022, on receipt of planning we will commence our detailed tender package of information which in conjunction with the structural engineer, will enable the project to be tendered out to a selection of competent local contractors.

Works are hoping to be on site middle to end of 2023, dependent upon contractor availability. PJH Architectural Services will be assisting the client and contractor throughout the project via our full site supervision service. Refer to our regular newsfeed for progress updates.

Thinking of pursuing something similar to our “New Build Bramhall” project? Feel free to take a look at some of our blogs:

How to maintain your budget.
Tendering – Everything you need to know.
Choose the right designer for your project.

If you need any advice on the first steps of designing and planning a new build, feel free to get in touch for a brief chat, we are here to help.

Email: enquiry@pjhas.co.uk

Tel: 0161 4600382