James focused on the structural aspects, ensuring that the design not only met their aesthetic preferences but also adhered to sound engineering principles. Yet, the steep slope posed a variety of challenges.
A friend in the industry looked at the site and said “there’s going to be too much money in the groundworks,” James discloses. To mitigate costs, they opted for a 300 mm thick reinforced concrete pad foundation, which was linked to a 310 mm thick retaining wall. “After those were done, you are then just building a house off of it!” explains James. Though Lianne preferred not to have excessive space, the terrain dictated a split- level, three-storey design for the home, featuring a generous lower level that connects to the garden. Here, the couple faced the dilemma of either placing the primary living and kitchen area on the lower level for easy garden access, or on the middle oor to capitalise on views of the valley.
Observing neighbouring houses, which
featured living spaces on the lower level, James and Lianne deliberated over their layout. “If we could include a balcony on the middle oor which would connect to the garden, we’d much prefer to have the living space on the same oor that you walk into when you come in,” explains James. Lianne didn’t want to have to descend to access the living spaces, which further cemented the desire to prioritise the views from the living and kitchen area.
Embarking on construction in March 58
www.sbhonline.co.uk
2021, the work unfolded in two phases. Initially, groundwork saw a local contractor equipped with an 18-tonne excavator to tackle the challenging terrain, followed by a main contractor.
Being mindful of their impact on the local
area, the couple proactively spoke to their neighbours to inform them on what was happening: “We made sure we communicated with everyone throughout the build, sharing copies of the plans, letting them know the duration, and any obstructions such as cranes entering the street,” explains Lianne. Thanks to this, they’ve become close friends with the neighbours, considering them “lifelong friends.” Despite initial projections, the project was extended to 18 months. Fortunately, during this period, the family found a place to stay with the kindness of a friend who had temporarily vacated her home to embark on her own building project. “We were really lucky as she was so understanding and allowed us to stay for the length we needed, and with two big dogs!” However, as the Bank of England base rate began to increase, the mortgage market became increasingly volatile. “We had to complete the build as soon as we could in order to secure our mortgage rate,” explains Lianne. e had also given our friend a final date a few months before so she could advertise the house.” This resulted in the family having to move in significantly earlier than planned. hen say
LOW POINT
“When the Bank of England raised their base rate and we had to move in before the house was ready. It was a nightmare.” – James
may/jun 2024
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