New build SIPS construction with internal swimming pool

KNARESBOROUGH

PROJECT BRIEF

The vacant site was purchased by the client with planning permission for a substantial stone detached property over 4 floors. Abodhi architects were commissioned to redesign the internal layout and project manage the contract through to completion. The original approved layout lacked design flair and some simple alterations allowed for the inclusion of a triple height atrium space forming the focal point of a curved stairway more befitting of a property of this grandeur.

CONSTRUCTION

The sloping site allowed for the building to be dug into the slope with a retaining wall facilitating a basement that still opens to the dramatic view of the river Nidd to the south. An infinity swimming pool in the basement allowed for a design feature that connects with the river beyond and the rest of the basement is allocated to gym and ancillary changing rooms. The basement was built using traditional construction of a cast slab with a beam and block floor to the floor above. The top 3 floors were constructed using SIP construction for speed but also to take advantage of the exceptional thermal qualities that this method facilitates. Locally quarried stone was the finishing material and the roof included solar slates to enable the house to achieve (now defunct) Code for Sustainable Homes level 4.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Abodhi architects worked closely with local businesses to ensure a coordinated approach throughout the construction process. Through a good understanding of the design principles employed throughout the building we could ensure that all areas read as a single design entity. Kitchens were procured locally and high quality fittings specified throughout.

DESIGN FEATURES

The house was primarily designed around an entrance atrium that visually connects the top three floors and allows for an exciting and dramatic stair and ballustrade design. The architecture is reasonably traditional in its symmetry and cellular design. The main living spaces all cluster around central family room with good access to the external terraces and the stunning views beyond. One interesting, but also challenging, feature was the introduction of the idea that the infinity pool features a floor that mechanically lifts to provide a solid floor when in ballroom mode!

LANDSCAPING

Abodhi architects designed a preliminary landscaping design which took into account the hard landscaping strategy and the changes in level that the complex site required. Given that the infinity pool was such a strong design feature of the basement level it seemed only appropriate to take this ethos and strong linear form into the landscaping strategy. An infinity fountain was introduced at the top level of the grounds which spills over to an ornamental rill helping to draw the eye from the house down the valley to the River Nidd beyond. By working closely with the Landscape Architect on the soft landscaping strategy we could ensure the design ethos was carried through to the planting schedule.

COMPLETION