TOP TIPS
“Be really open & honest; ring people and ask: can we have that; how do you do that? People are very helpful.”
he was mostly unphased by the project. His career had seen him work on huge projects including hotels. “We love the high ceiling in the living room with the Velux windows and surrounding full- length windows looking onto the garden,” says Sarah, discussing their favourite bits. The large garden though the triple-glazed windows follows the eco-concept of the build, and has areas left to rewild that will become wildlife meadows. While Trevor really did take the concept of self-build literally, the couple called on the help of Falmouth-based architecture firm Marraum, who had a 21st
century solution to their design
issue. “The best help we had was from Marraum, who helped us redesign the interior of the log cabin. Although it was a kit house we were able to make what changes we wanted to the interior layout before the design was finalised and then sent to us.”
“Adam at Marraum was able to input the house structure into a 3D programme so that with the help of virtual reality headsets we could walk around the house and see what it would actually look like. Adam even set this up so that the sun moved throughout the day to show you where light would be coming into the house.” She adds: “Being disabled, it was very important to me to have wide doorways and easy access to all areas.”
Having an architect also meant that even the smallest of details were considered and accommodated. While the homeowners focused
may/june 2022
on where to place furniture and the look of their kitchen, the team also had an eye on practical things, like ensuring there was enough storage. “It made sure we had places to store things like a mop and Hoover, that you don’t always think about.” Virtual reality allows architects – and their clients – to experience and understand buildings before they actually exist. In the case of Rose Wood House, Sarah and Trevor could walk through their house before it is built. Changes can be made with a few clicks of a keyboard – and even allow you to drop in the furniture and decide ahead what you need and where things will go. “This was invaluable,” says Sarah. The couple could then pay Arctichouse in Finland to make the changes to the design for their layout. “Sarah and Trevor asked us to review the initial plans of their home,” explains Adam Laskey at Marraum. “We quickly realised that the layout wasn’t considered for a wheelchair user, and set about redesigning, while also taking the opportunity to ensure the space made the most of its surroundings. “We created a virtual reality experience that allowed us to test Sarah’s wheelchair and ensure that the space worked for her. Once approved, these designs were sent back to the manufacturer for amendments. Trevor then built the home himself, a labour of love, with Sarah researching all the ins and outs, ensuring the family got the best ethical and environmental solutions for their budget. Embracing the
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