We are excited to have secured full planning consent for the re-modelling & extension of Charters, Leigh Woods, Bristol.
The project's client acquired Charters early 2021, the property had been vacant and in the same family ownership for many years remaining unchanged from its design as a detached late 70’s neo classical “executive” home faced in period coursed Cotswold stone & casement windows. Located within the wonderful setting of Leigh Woods & Ashton Court, a stones throw away from the Clifton and the Suspension Bridge. Benefitting from an elevated location within a generous south facing plot and bounded by mature trees and historic pennant stone boundary walls, Charters has wonderful views across south Bristol& the Mendips.
The client had a strong design vision for the re-modelling & reinterpretation of the existing building to create a new family home. WDA worked closely with the client through an iterative design process to create a successful contemporary design language that would challenge a mixed palette of vernacular styles whilst adhering to strict Conservation Area and Green Belt design guidance. The interior is arranged over split levels and addresses the existing site topography whilst building upon the opportunities to maximise wonderful short and long distance views.
The floorplates are bisected vertically by new double volume atria and stair-spaces that accent the new entrance to the building and create exciting North/ South sight lines that will act as portals between the various living spaces. Day room spaces face South West and are intentionally oversized with an adjustable bias allowing flex of living, dining & kitchen spaces and link seamlessly to the existing established gardens. Functional spaces including utility, garage and gymnasium are clustered around the Northerly aspect where the sloping site levels benefit the uses.
Through an informed and progressive approach to design and setting WDA with the support of a specialist consultant team worked closely with North Somerset Council to achieve a successful determination that aligned with the clients vision for a new home and way of living whilst working with the constraints associated with Conservation and Green Belt areas.