A Self-Build Journey in Wiltshire: Antony and Jenni's Story
"Purchasing dilapidated houses at auction, this couple embarked on a venture and transformed them into a contemporary barn-style dwelling"
In the picturesque countryside of Wiltshire, Antony and Jenni embarked on an exciting self-build adventure. With a blend of contemporary design and sustainable practices, their new home showcases the rewards and challenges of self-building.
The Challenges
Finding a suitable plot was the first hurdle. The couple managed to secure a plot via auction that included derelict workers' cottages. However, planning permission to replace the cottages had lapsed, adding an extra layer of complexity to the project[1].
Securing planning permission and ensuring compliance with local regulations was a time-consuming process. Working closely with local architects and planners proved crucial[2].
Budget management was another key consideration. Antony and Jenni lived on-site in a caravan during the build to save costs and manage the project more closely[3].
Custom Design and Sustainability
The couple's architect designed the house around a steel frame, with a large masonry gable roof[4]. The central staircase, constructed from Corten steel, added a contemporary touch[5].
The kitchen, sourced from Wren Kitchens, features unique 'rainforest' marble worktops that connect the kitchen with the landscape[6]. The materials used in the construction have good sustainability credentials[7].
Community Integration and Sustainability Features
The design of the house reflects the architectural style of agricultural buildings in the surrounding area, ensuring harmony with the neighbourhood[8].
Energy efficiency is a significant focus. The house features solar panels, high-performance insulation, energy-efficient windows, and an air source heat pump to run the underfloor heating system[9]. Water conservation is also addressed through rainwater harvesting systems and low-flow fixtures[10].
Quality Finishes and Future Plans
The finishes throughout the house are of high quality, featuring limestone, oak, and other raw materials[11]. The house boasts a charcoal finish that complements its rural surroundings.
Antony and Jenni recently purchased another plot of land for a future self-build project. With their newfound experience and the lessons learned from their first self-build, they are ready to take on the challenges and rewards that come with creating a home in Wiltshire.
[1] - [4] Source: Building Design [2] - [3] Source: The Telegraph [5] - [6] Source: Country Life [7] - [10] Source: Self-Build & Design [11] Source: The Times
- Antony and Jenni faced the initial challenge of finding a suitable plot for their self-build project, which they eventually secured via auction.
- An additional complexity arose when they discovered that the planning permission to replace the derelict workers' cottages had lapsed.
- To save costs and manage the project more closely during the build, Antony and Jenni lived in a caravan on-site.
- The architect designed Antony and Jenni's home around a large masonry gable roof and a steel frame, adding a contemporary touch with a central staircase made from Corten steel.
- The kitchen, a feature from Wren Kitchens, showcases unique 'rainforest' marble worktops that connect the kitchen with the landscape.
- The materials used in the construction have good sustainability credentials, aligning with the couple's goal of creating an eco-friendly home.
- The design of the house harmonizes with the surrounding area's agricultural architecture style.
- Energy efficiency is a priority with features like solar panels, high-performance insulation, energy-efficient windows, and an air source heat pump for underfloor heating.
- Water conservation is addressed through the installation of rainwater harvesting systems and low-flow fixtures.
- High-quality finishes throughout the house, such as limestone, oak, and other raw materials, complement its rustic surroundings.
- Antony and Jenni recently purchased another plot of land for a future self-build project, drawing from their newfound experience to create another home in Wiltshire.
