Hillside, Grafty Green ⏐ New Build
Designed and built for a private client on the outskirts of the picturesque Kent village of Grafty Green, Hillside was a custom-designed oak-frame dwelling in the local vernacular, conceived to resemble a converted agricultural building. The project involved the demolition of an existing modest bungalow and outbuildings, and the construction of a single-storey, 215m² dwelling with a ‘U’-shaped plan that directly referenced traditional Kentish farm structures. To minimise its visual impact, the ground floor was partially sunk into the site, and the design incorporated locally sympathetic materials and detailing, including a timber garage and a carefully landscaped frontage.
The house was designed with a strong focus on sustainability, biodiversity, and heritage sensitivity. Bat mitigation measures, ecological enhancements, and renewable energy systems were integrated into the development, while a 5-bar gate and native planting maintained the rural character of the site. Internally, the layout maximised natural light and views across the surrounding countryside, providing spacious, functional accommodation without compromising the visual integrity of the local landscape. The resulting dwelling successfully balanced contemporary living standards with respect for the historic and ecological context of the Kent countryside, delivering a visually unobtrusive and environmentally considerate home.
