Project Archive - back to archives
< Previous - Next >

NEW BUILD - HEREFORDSHIRE
Project: Re-model existing house
Approximate Total Build Cost: £116,000
Total Approximate Area: 244m (2,583 ft)
Client: Private Client

We have now worked with two different clients on this project. From our initial enquiry to work commencing on site, took five years. When the initial client had purchased the land, we believe that they considered the works would not cost a great deal more than a project on a level site. Consequently having compiled a design to which they approved, and finding the civil engineering costs involved being far more expensive than budgeted for, they decided to sell the site. When the second client made enquiries with us (independently of the first), we immediately made them aware of problems they may encounter. Despite this the considered the site to be ideally suited to their requirements.

Hardy Associates were appointed to create an interesting design and gain planning approval. The client is very pleased with the design, creating ample sitting areas at all levels internally and externally. The balcony and lower level terraces forming a major part of the design.

Part of the design brief was to ensure that the proposed house was suitable for entertaining there friends and clients in both formal and casual settings. As this is initially, to be their weekend and holiday retreat from London, it was important that the panoramic country views were seen in every part of the house. With the assistance of our consultant structural engineer a soil investigation was carried out and the concept drawings were compiled, maximizing the benefits of the hillside. The client was delighted with the proposals and plans were then created as to how the hillside could change shape with good civil engineering, for the benefit of providing good access and ample car parking.

The planners immediately liked the scheme and looked forward to its completion. As soon as approval was given Hardy Homes were commissioned to commence works at the earliest opportunity on a fixed price, subject to additions or omissions due to changes in specification or volume of works. As might be expected the ground works formed a large part of the overall contract. Due to good organization, teamwork and reasonable weather (for Britain), the newly formed drive down the hillside, foundations and ground slab were constructed in half the time proposed.

The home is not totally timber framed. Due to the retaining wall at the rear and sides it was considered more appropriate for the lower floor to be formed in cavity walls with stone cladding externally. A service duct was formed internally prior to the Fermacell board finish. The upper floor was constructed in an overall timber frame thickness of 150mm, with external interlocking boarding. This project was also fitted with a Thermabrite reflective film improving the U-value significantly. This was typical of the specification agreed with the client ensuring the highest quality home, including Swedish, triple glazed windows, heat recovery system, underfloor heating to both floors and designer kitchen and bathrooms. The proposed budget was £180,00, which Hardy Homes came well within.

In conclusion, this house is significantly different to conventional house design, enabling the client to be proud of owning a very unique property.