The brief for the ground floor was for separate rooms but with a natural flow through the house. Two big dogs are an integral part of the family and I have included an unheated indoor kennel accessed from the utility room and with its own external door.

On the first floor there are five good bedrooms, the largest being the master suite with dressing area and full bathroom. Bedroom five includes a private sitting area for Jennifer. I have also shown a sizeable attic space, which adds useful storage but could be used for additional accommodation if required.

Planners in the National Park understandably insist that any new buildings are in harmony with existing architecture. I have therefore given the house an uncluttered appearance with rendered walls, slate roof, plain chimneys and traditional casement windows.

If the use of dormer windows proved contentious then these could easily be replaced by Velux roof lights.

Ian and Helen say: This house's frontage is pleasing to the eye but we think the attic dormer windows would have to go as suggested by the designer. Unfortunately the useful porch area, which we like, would have to change to a lean-to porch as the planners state "these are not in keeping with the area".

Inside it flows off the hall very well with good areas for storage. We love the idea of the dogs' own kennel. Depending on alignment we might move the sun room.

Upstairs is great, with a good flow and sense of space. The window seat is a bonus. We also like the multi-user idea for the family bathroom. Having good access to the attic is useful not only for storage but also hobbies.