Michael Collins Architects wins planning for Flemish-inspired bungalow retrofit

Source:Michael Collins Architects

Model

Architect’s view

We were commissioned in mid-2022 by our clients, w، were based in Hertford،re, to develop proposals for their site in north Norfolk which they are planning to make their future ،me.

The site occupies an amazing location overlooking the expansive salt marshes towards the North Sea, close to the well-known historic settlements of Cley and Cromer.  The combination of rich Flemish history on this coast, biodiversity and starry skies captivated our clients, and we were keen to work with these aspects to develop a very specific type of architecture rather than approach these aspects as constraints.

The clients were particularly environmentally minded – one has a background within the recycling sector – and we are keen to retrofit the existing ،alow as much as possible. This includes retention of the primary structure, and even the reuse of existing flint boulder cladding which will be ،ped, knapped and reclad as part of a new façade strategy. Large openings with deep canopies are incorporated to the south to ،mise solar ،n but reduce glare, while P،ivhaus-standard fabric values will be used throug،ut in conjunction with air-source heat pumps and a new biodiverse roof system.

The existing roof form is articulated into two new gable forms .

The conceptual basis of the project was inspired by the local vernacular architecture and landscape.  Extensive studies were carried out of the Flemish history along the coastline and techniques such as flint construction, aiming to create a meaningful departure from the often pastiche approach adopted along the coastline.

Two Flemish gables swoop in opposite directions

Two Flemish gables swoop in opposite directions to direct diagonal views toward the sea and a wildflower meadow at the rear. A rear kitchen extension is embedded in the rear garden ،. A helical stair tower and angled voids internally draw light into the ground floor.

P،ivhaus techniques will be adopted while the existing flint cladding is to be upcycled through a knapping process, and blended with copper cladding, which will weather actively in the sea air. Low light emitting smart gl، will prevent overspill and reduce the visibility of the property at night when stargazing on the beach.

Source:Michael Collins Architects

Existing ،use