Dairy Farm Lodge
New Build • Dorset
Project Description: New Build Dwelling
Location: Dorset
Total Gross Internal Area: 307m² (3,305ft²)
Planning Granted: July 2012
Construction Started: 2013
Construction Completed: 2014
Procurement Method: Fully managed by client using sub contractors for specific elements.
Construction Technique:
Foundations & Substructure: Mass concrete trench fill foundations with beam & block ground floor structure.
Superstructure: Load bearing masonry external walls (no cavity) with localised steel frame. External wall insulation and cladding. Traditional timber cut intermediate floor and pitched roof.
Awards- Finalist in the Grand Designs Awards 2009
Tony Holt Design Appointment: Stage 1 - Design & Planning. Stage 2 - Full working drawings including assembly details. Stage 3 - Tender Support. Stage 4 - Ad-hoc on site support.
Featured In: Built It Magazine - read the full article here
Client Testimonial:
“Some years ago, we were struggling to obtain planning permission for a new build project in Charlton Marshall, Dorset and were advised by the planning authorities to find an innovative, creative architect. A friend recommended Tony Holt to us and this proved to be a huge success. Tony worked brilliantly with the planning authorities, designing the well known, stunning "Dairy Farm Lodge" property. During the whole process we found Tony very easy to work with and planning permission was obtained at the first attempt. The build process went very smoothly, thanks to Tony's detailed input. This was our first self build and it couldn't have gone any better. We can highly recommend Tony and the team, we certainly wouldn't hesitate to use them again in the future.”
When we discovered the location of this property, we immediately recognised its exceptional potential. Situated in an elevated position, the existing brown brick and tile council built bungalow offered breathtaking 180-degree views of the surrounding countryside.
Although the bungalow had only two small windows facing one of the most spectacular vistas in Dorset, it was precisely the captivating view and the rural setting that inspired our design approach. Thus, Dairy Farm Lodge emerged as a modern house that seamlessly blends traditional materials with an agricultural touch. Its architectural proportions bear resemblance to a barn, enveloped primarily in cedar wood, while large expanses of glass panels illuminate the interior. A zinc roof completes the natural color palette, harmonizing the building with its surroundings.
Approaching the house, one is greeted by a timber-clad structure featuring understated window openings and a substantial front door. Adjacent to the entrance, a striking two-story glazed section allows an abundance of natural light to fill the space, thanks to a vaulted roof that stretches the entire height of the building.
As you move through the house towards the rear, the expansive glass elements unveil a stunning panoramic view of the countryside. The main living areas seamlessly transition onto raised timber decking and a paved courtyard, facilitated by folding sliding doors. The master bedroom boasts a two-story vaulted ceiling, accompanied by a mezzanine study that provides a perspective through a glazed wall. This same glazed wall opens onto a spacious terrace overlooking the paved courtyard below. The design intentionally maximizes the distant views while also creating a sense of privacy and seclusion. Moreover, the vaulted roof extends over the balcony, supported by large galvanized steel posts, providing shelter from wind and rain.
The end result is nothing short of breathtaking, garnering significant recognition in various national publications. Dairy Farm Lodge has graced the cover of a leading self-build magazine and was selected as one of the top 60 new build properties in the Grand Designs Live Awards 2009.
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