Designed by Alma-nac, Located in an area of outstanding natural beauty, within the South Downs National Park, the new house sits on the site of a bungalow that had been in the family for over sixty years. It was important to our client that something of this building?s simple shape would be retained while creating a contemporary home. Together with our client, we wanted to make the most of the views out to the landscaped garden and the South Downs beyond and a connection with the outdoors was essential. This is largely achieved through extensively glazed openings as well as the direct access to the gardens from the living and dining spaces.
Photography: Jack Hobhouse
The 240 square meter building?s discrete form takes inspiration from the previous bungalow appearing on approach as a single story dual pitched building, hunkered down behind a planted bank. The communal or social spaces of the house (living room, kitchen, dining room) are located to the southern end of the building. The living room spans the full width of the building and punctuates the western elevation with full height glazing. A large fireplace creates a natural divide between the living room and the kitchen/dining area, with elevated ceilings that follow the dual pitch of the roof. The bedroom accommodation is all located to the more private northern end of the building where the symmetrical roof becomes asymmetrical, housing a first floor level for the master bedroom and studio/guest bedroom. The changing...