Alderley Edge based FPA Architects has won a commission from award winning developer Hillcrest Homes to create an 8,000 sq ft contemporary abode on one of the most prestigious roads in Prestbury.
The three-strong start up, formed in October last year, was chosen following a competitive pitch against a number of prominent local practices.
Hillcrest’s one-acre tree-lined site rests off Castle Hill at the end of a long drive and is currently occupied by a 1970’s style bungalow. FPA has proposed a multi-level property, which works in harmony with the gently sloping site to blend into the woodland setting.
"This is a very special location and the current property is neither sympathetic to its setting or up to meeting the basic standards of environmental efficiency," says architect James Hindley.
"We’ve studied the topography and have spoken with planning officials and local authority arboricultural officers to respond with a more respectful and appealing design which will work with the gentle gradient of the land rather than against it."
The proposed five-bedroom property will be presented for planning later this month but already has the seal of approval of residents living adjacent to the site, particularly as it will impact less on the environment than the response some architects and developers may have taken.
Says James, "All too often sites such as this are dug out to create a flat base for a large imposing property. By embracing the natural slope of the land we can create an exciting and original home but also one which is innately eco-friendly; we’ve reduced the amount of waste going to landfill, have imposed our own tree protection policy and are controlling heat loss through clever design rather than having to rely on eco-technology."
Hillcrest Homes have recently received a lot of press coverage for their innovative new development in Alderley Edge, a reinvention of the humble bungalow. Today, bungalows are pigeonholed as the staid domain of the retired or those seeking sunshine in seaside towns but Hillcrest Homes have given the bungalow a radical makeover.
Work has commenced on the £1.75m property off Macclesfield Road called Chantreys. This modernist revival of the bungalow promises spacious, light filled interiors with flexible living accommodation and a luxurious specification.
Although the property will be predominantly single storey, Hillcrest is installing a second floor within the southern "wing" to accommodate a 1,000 sq ft luxurious homeowners' haven.
Says Hillcrest Managing Director, Mike Kennedy, "Chantreys draws more parallels with the Australian or American interpretation of "bungalow" than the British. It is glamorous, innovative and very stylish with accommodation that flows to unite each of the living spaces.
"One of the greatest advantages bungalows have over other house styles is their flexibility. Any room can be used for any purpose because they are all on the same level and because we tend to use our homes for more than just eating, sleeping and entertaining they have to be versatile and capable of being tailored to our lifestyle."
For more information on forthcoming developments from Hillcrest Homes contact 01925 269912 or their website. For more information on FPA Architects call 01625 599605.
