Chronicling Narnia
A Magical Fusion of Contemporary Design and Timeless Tradition
We are thrilled to announce that planning permission for one of our favourite projects has been secured! Nestled next to the famous C. S. Lewis House in Headington, this enchanting replacement dwelling is aptly named Narnia. It masterfully combines contemporary design with traditional local materials, creating a unique and magical home. With whimsical features like a wardrobe concealing the cloakroom, it pays tribute to the great writer's works while offering a modern living space designed to be as timeless as his stories.
Artist’s Impression - Rear
Navigating the planning process for such a unique project was no small feat. The journey began with meticulous research and careful planning to ensure that every detail would meet the stringent requirements set by the local planning authority. From the outset, our goal was to create a home that not only complements the historic and cultural significance of its surroundings but also stands as a testament to modern sustainability and design innovation.
We faced several challenges along the way, including ensuring the design would not adversely affect the neighboring properties and maintaining the natural beauty of the site and surrounding area. After numerous consultations and revisions, we are proud to have achieved a design that meets the Planners requirements while providing a beautiful, functional, and environmentally responsible home.
The site currently consists of a two-storey detached brick dwelling with a tiled roof, situated centrally on a relatively flat plot with a gradual slope. One of the main drivers of the brief was to take advantage of the stunning views of the C.S. Lewis Nature Reserve to the rear.
The proposed replacement dwelling will allow for a larger family home that harmonises with the surrounding area. The design respects the context of the site and neighboring properties. The form and massing of the proposed dwelling are broken into components to reduce visual impact. The traditional pitched roof forms, combined with contemporary detailing, create a simple yet elegant aesthetic. The structure incorporates a main pitched roof with a rear gable projection oriented southward to maximize views. A single-storey kitchen wing extends into the rear garden and opens onto an outdoor kitchen area, enhancing the connection to the garden.
The palette of materials has been carefully chosen with reference to the local building stock as well as a contemporary interpretation of the existing buildings and the surroundings. This thoughtful selection provides a visual connection to the site and context, integrating the development seamlessly into the street scene. The material palette consists of timber boarding, natural stone, and slate roofing. The careful combination of these materials, complemented by larger areas of glazing, offers a simple yet sophisticated aesthetic. The size and proportion of openings are designed to maximize natural light within the building and enhance both external and internal spaces.
The design integrates sustainable features such as a heat pump system, solar panels, solar shading, and EV charging infrastructure, significantly reducing the carbon footprint. A standout feature of the sustainability strategy is the integration of horizontal louvers to manage solar gains. These louvers will provide effective solar shading, reducing heat buildup during the summer months and thereby lowering cooling demands. This system will help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round while reducing energy consumption and enhancing the overall efficiency of the home. The project includes comprehensive planting enhancements to supplement existing natural screening, with a scheme proposing over 50 species of trees and hedges. This will enhance biodiversity and ensure privacy.
We are excited about the opportunities this development brings and look forward to creating a home that is both beautiful and environmentally responsible. This project represents a significant milestone in our journey, reflecting our commitment to quality, sustainability, and respect for the local heritage. Thank you to our clients for their support and entrusting us with their project.
Look out for updates as we embark on this journey to bring Narnia to life!
Artist’s Impression - Front
