HSSP Architects
HSSP overcomes planning challenges in innovative Leicestershire build
Sleek, modern design has been combined with traditional artisan craftsmanship in HSSP’s Paradise Lane project: an open plan, light and spacious luxurious four-bedroom family home with interlinked garage and games room in rural Leicestershire.
The build, which incorporates traditional proportions and materials with modern interventions, posed significant challenges to HSSP’s team of architects. Most pressing was that local planning stipulations meant that the home couldn’t exceed 1.5 storeys – the size of the previous building on the site. The restriction, which was set to ensure the building would be sympathetic to its surroundings, called for an innovative approach to design and construction.
The design focus was to create a feeling of space. To do this, HSSP used large sections of glazing, with a full height picture window at the front of the home. The use of glass created a spacious feel and provided impressive views of the beautiful rural surrounds. A dual aspect kitchen with a large eating area was designed to spill out on the southern courtyard with double bi-folding doors creating a seamless opening to the garden, and boosting the feeling of space.
Paradise Lane is situated on a hill, and the steep gradient over the whole site posed another significant technical challenge. The team worked hard to incorporate the changing levels, creating a double height entrance hall and viewing platforms throughout.
HSSP adopted a ‘fabric first’ approach: the house is built from natural stone, each block hand carved on site by a small team of skilled stone masons. Their results were exceptional as was their meticulous attention to detail, and their work was recognised with a Merit of Craftsmanship Award and an LABC commendation.
The property is efficient and sustainable – featuring a highly efficient condenser boiler, combined with low intensity underfloor heating to improve efficiency, along with increased insulation, enhanced specification glazing and a green roof for biodiversity. The team was also able to ensure that there is scope to build in renewables, such as solar collectors and heat pumps, at a later date.
HSSP’s architects put the success of this project down to close collaboration. The client’s vision combined with HSPP’s architectural expertise has created an innovative and striking home which will remain testament to architecture and construction in years to come. The client’s ambition was to derive as much value from the volume of space that was available, and Paradise Lane does just this.
Architect: HSSP Architects
