Stackyard is a new-build two-storey rural house neighbouring a Grade II listedfarmhouse on the edge of the village of Palgrave in Suffolk. Designed as a new homefor a retiring couple it is a modern house with an exposed timber structure, maximumnatural light, sustainable features.
The house takes its name from the agricultural enclosure typical to the area, which isused to store sheafs of corn. Located on the edge of the farmland the house opensup views to the north west and creates a space from which to enjoy the surroundinglandscape.
The house sits within the ground, with an in-situ concrete base, timber frame andsilvered timber cladding.It’s form takes inspiration from classical rectories that typically stand at the edge ofvillages, with a square plan and strong roofline.Split levels negotiate the sloping site and the design departs from its classicalpredecessors in its use of an asymmetrical composition of windows, solar screens,and doorways, giving the elevations a less formal appearance.
Inside a generous entrance hall opens into a double height atrium leading into livingquarters with high ceilings and deep timber beams demonstrating the primary timberframe structure.Responding to the client’s brief for a space to observe nature, the upper bedroom sitshalf a floor higher than the parapet, with a projecting roof sheltering the room fromsummer sun, creating a cap to the building while reinforcing its position as bothretreat and hide.
The property showcases hi-tech low energy design solutions in a contemporaryvernacular scheme, allowing the owners to embrace a more environmentallysustainable lifestyle in a house which harmonises with its rural setting. Stackyard isdesigned to Passivhaus standards, incorporating high levels of insulation and anairtight envelope. Its compact form reduces energy loss and its orientation makesuse of solar gain. Window sizes have been restricted with openings predominantlytowards the south. Solar collectors on the roof provide hot water, and solarphotovoltaic roofing is located on the garage roof, and rainwater collected for gardenuse.
