This case study is a great example of just what can be achieved even on a restricted plot with a limited budget. This is a typical infill village plot, its flat, around 35m deep but only 11m wide. Services were readily available in the footpath fronting the site.

On initial viewing by our Company Architect, Tom Somerville the plot looked capable of sustaining a house of only 140m² or 150 m²² but with the high cost of building land, the clients were looking for something more like 175m² to make the project viable..

Our Head of Design, Beverley had previously built her own home on a similar sized plot and her design was used as a starting point. With a re-jig of the internal layout and the addition of attic rooms we were able to increase the floor area to 178m².

From there the whole process went remarkably smoothly and quickly. Planning was very straightforward taking only 9 weeks and once we had prepared the Building Regulations drawings, Tom arranged for a fixed quote from a builder to construct the watertight shell. The clients had already decided to be closely involved with the finishes and therefore self-managed the internal trades - all in conjunction with our integrated service. The structure is energy efficient masonry construction with solid floors and walls throughout. From first meeting the clients to them moving in to their new home took less than 12 months.

Our clients are absolutely delighted with the finished house and the service they received from the Design & Materials team, as evidenced by the letter they sent to our MD on completion. You will see we have not given the full address to protect our clients' privacy but they can be contacted through Tom Somerville.