Zac Monro Architects

Kew

We were called-in after the previous Architect came-up with what the client described as a ‘80s style Noddy house’. We worked with the planners to agree various amendments to the original application, to create a clean-lined, open-plan construction that could be built sustainably.

The project was exactly the wrong size for the brief! As a one-off 80m2 dwelling it was too small to have a low £/m2 cost, but too big for the budget. We went through numerous off-site pre-fabricated systems before coming across a small-scale local contractor with enough timber-frame experience to provide a feasible quote.

Our first new-build project, its carbon foot print was reduced with the use of a mineral wool super-insulated all-timber structure. Planning stipulated the brick outer skin, which was sourced locally and used as a rain-screen, performing no structural function. The Local District Surveyor took great exception to the construction, despite the Consulting Engineers, suppliers and manufacturers assurances, but in the end detailed calculations and on-site testing proved its performance well in-excess of the requirement.

The much-worked-on proportions, deep-set Portland stone lined openings and walnut-trimmed minimal interior make this cheap construction a wonderful warm first home.