

Holmwood
RX Architects
: Wadhurst
Holmwood, is an adaption of an existing 1980’s rural property, formally part of an agricultural setting – re worked to create a contemporary family homeThe site is positioned in a rural setting within the High Weald National Landscape (formerly Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), set within several acres of land, the property has fantastic views down the valley towards the natural landscape. The brief was to adapt the run down 1980’s red brick chalet bungalow and to create a contemporary home for family living, providing open plan and flexible spaces which connect to the landscape and outside spaces. The clients also had a background in landscape design works so had a vison to re design the gardens to create a better link with the new house and the views beyond with landscaped areas around the house, including a new natural swimming pool. In re using the existing structure, it enabled a much more cost efficient, and environmentally sustainable option to adapt the property. The new scheme combines a large solar array, heat pumps and natural ventilation with newly installed insulation wrapped behind the re clad elevations, resulting in lower long term running costs and carbon footprint. The external walls are clad in charred natural timber, with the roof faced in standing seam natural zinc. A polished concrete floor was laid throughout to provide thermal mass, slowly releasing heat output in the window acting as a heat store, whilst remaining cool in the summer.