Woodlands
by Tye Architects

Tye Architects has completed a stunning modern replacement dwelling that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings while prioritizing high-quality design and sustainability. This residential project, designed to preserve the site’s openness through clever landscape integration, minimises its environmental impact and sets a new standard for contemporary living.

The newly constructed home features four bedrooms, five bathrooms, an open-plan living arrangement, two studies, reception and family areas, utility and storage spaces, and an integral double garage. Additionally, the property includes a guest house with two bedrooms and one bathroom, along with a pool house and leisure facility.

Originally set for a 72-week completion, the project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns. Issues with supply chains and additional client requests, such as the addition of a tennis court and new landscaping, extended the timeline to approximately two years, including extra time for landscaping.

The building’s construction utilises a combination of traditional and modern techniques. The structure comprises reinforced concrete and a steel frame, while the external walls are made of concrete block cavity walls clad in natural stone. The first floor features areas with a natural stone ventilated facade. The glazing consists of double glazing with solar protection coating and aluminium frames. The roof and terraces boast a ceramic finish RAF system, with timber flooring for the Sky Lounge and Lower Ground Floor, natural stone for the Upper Ground Floor, and ceramic tiles for the bathrooms. Granite setts and stepping stones enhance the landscape and access points.

Despite adjustments to the original project, including value engineering and redesigns to remove a pond, heated pool, and AC throughout, the new building meets the clients’ needs while maximizing the site’s potential. The orientation and layout exploit both the views and the sun path, allowing for passive solar heating through expansive glazing. The three-story dwelling arranges bedrooms on the lower floor, communal living spaces on the upper ground floor, and a Sky Lounge area with an external roof terrace to capitalise on the views.

By using natural materials such as the natural stone that forms the building envelope, Tye Architects has ensured a longer lifespan for the building with less maintenance. This choice also reduces the global warming potential compared to materials with more complex manufacturing processes.