Flintstones

Contemporary house on a unique Conservation Area site subject to multiple constraints.

Location Winterbourne Whitechurch, Dorset

Status Built

Use Residential

Client Sandbourne Developments

This contemporary house is set adjacent to a sensitive Conservation Area on a steeply sloping former chalk quarry, surrounded by significant heritage assets. Located in the village of Winterbourne Whitechurch, Dorset, the site sits within the garden setting of Grade II listed thatched cottages and in close proximity to the Grade I listed St Mary’s Church, demanding a carefully considered architectural response.

residential modern new home with feature flint fireplace and large windows overlooking countryside

open plan modern kitchen living room in residential new house with large kitchen island

sketch perspective of new residential home with driveway

House design concept

The house is designed to nestle comfortably into the sloping hillside. Careful excavation of the site allows part of the building to be subterranean, providing generous floor area along with a basement annexe and garage. This approach minimises the visual impact of the house, enabling it to sit discreetly within the surrounding landscape and respect the setting of the neighbouring Grade I Listed Church.

Low-key elevations and a restrained massing strategy, ensure the house respects important views, and the historic hierarchy of the surrounding listed buildings.

The project was developed in close collaboration with the Local Planning Authority and Conservation Officer, to address the site’s constraints and sensitivities.

Original site

Concept visual

Excavation of the quarry Excavation of quarry

Residential house elevations in black and white

Exterior materials

A muted material palette was selected in response to the site’s context. The elevations comprise a combination of flint, grey engineering brick, and horizontal timber cladding, which has silvered naturally over time.

These materials reference the local geology and reinforce a strong sense of place.

residential modern new home with feature flint fireplace

Internal layout to maximise views

Internally, the layout is arranged to take full advantage of panoramic views across the valley of rolling chalk downland, while maintaining privacy and a strong connection to the landscape.

Spread across three levels, the house is light and spacious, offering clean modern detailing, combined with warmth and practicality. The first floor is fully open plan, combining the living, dining and kitchen areas. Large roof lights and full height windows allow light to flood the room.

The Upper Ground floor accommodates the bedrooms and family bathroom featuring a walk in shower.

On the Lower ground floor, a subsequent design alteration provides a discreet, functional annexe offering flexible ancillary accommodation.