Goose AcreMarkyate, Hertfordshire




Although the existing site is currently an open meadow it is dominated by the proximity of electricity pylons which provide an overpowering focal point. As argued above the intervention of a simple but exceptional piece of architecture will provide a new quality to the local context and as such will create a more sympathetic and harmonious visual setting for near and long views across open countryside. 

Our proposal is comprised of a cluster of small parapet roofed building blocks varying subtly in size and height and interconnected by a central glazed courtyard. This strategy has been adopted in order to create a dwelling that sits comfortably within an open building plot bounded by two existing dwellings to the east and open countryside along the other edges. The profile of this form is reminiscent of the typical agriculture farmsteads common to rural Hertfordshire and this provides the inspiration from which the concept is developed. Rather than traditional pitched roofs we have adopted flat parapet roofing that will be fully planted with local wildflower species. The subtle terracing effect of the planted roofs against the background landscape will provide a less imposing volume. 
Each of the 4 building volumes encloses different aspects of the house depending on internal layout requirements and external orientation. Each block has its own character but each uses a simple and limited pallet of 'Chiltern' materials such as local handmade brick and black painted timber. Depending on orientation each has a glazed facade that allows open views from internal spaces as well as good day-lighting and passive solar gain to assist with a low carbon winter heating strategy. 

The form makes use of extended brick walls which define more private areas of amenity. These make reference to the long tradition of the English garden walls that contribute to the character of our rural landscape. The dwelling and the walls are set back from the main boundary so as to retain a sense of openness. The sunken and central courtyards are intended to provide household amenity for clothes drying, children's play equipment etc without visual impact from either the highway on the north or the open countryside.







Project Name: Goose Acre 
Location: Markyate, Hertfordshire 
Gross Floor Area (House): 410 m2 
Value: Confidential 
Environmental Rating: Ultra-low carbon 
Project Period: March 2015 to 2025

Project Credits 

Architect: Kirkland Fraser Moor Architects 
Client: Private
Landscape Architect: Landscape Agency  
Planning Consultant: Michael Osman 
Ecology: MKEcology 

Visualisation: Forbes Massie 
© Kirkland Fraser Moor           Tel: 01442 864 673 Email: mail@k-f-m.com
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