Fulbeck Heights

Fulbeck Heights is a contemporary interpretation of the unique characteristics of Fulbeck Village and the conservation area. A highly specific response of quality design that engages articulately in vernacular conversation on multiple levels. A cluster of familiar forms and materials simultaneously provides surprise and delight. The proposal embraces multiple contradictions whilst still providing harmony and familiarity. An ambitious scheme in terms of design, construction and environmental sensitivity manages to remain modest and unpretentious.

One of the defining characteristics of Fulbeck, is the limited material palette. We explored textures and strong familiar shapes with limestone. The gable ends are a prominent feature and require special treatment. In order to soften the transition between limestone block walls and the undulating language of the pantile roof we created a ribbed texture in limestone. With the varying orientation of this texture, some vertical, some following the angle of roof pitch we are able to provide interest and an elevated contemporary aesthetic only apparent upon closer approach to the dwelling.

A third variation of limestone manifests as the pronounced door and window surround. These surrounds are organised into a limited number of types within a family. This creates harmony within the overall aesthetic and high efficiency from a construction point of view. The surrounds vary in depth and detail depending on the type. Some window surrounds offer ‘micro event’ spaces in the form of external window seats - perfect for taking in the view. The depth of the window and door reveals is generous and creates a robust feeling commonly associated with traditional stone construction.

The Luxury in Fulbeck Heights is not brass trims or ornamentation. Luxury manifests in the relationship between the spaces and the view out across the landscape. Be it internal or external spaces, the view is quite spectacular. The strategy for the internal spaces is equally one of modesty. A paired-back approach expressing natural materials internally whilst curating the view at every opportunity. Large planes of glazing would not be appropriate for the design and instead carefully placed windows and doors provide views based on the function of spaces. Be it resting on their bed, working at their desk or having a bath, the user will have carefully curated views.

Traditionally houses in Northern Europe appear as single volumes; lumps on the land. Roman villas were organised and zoned around courtyards with shallow floor plates. This meant almost all rooms could avail of the daily changes in daylight from breakfast in the sun to dinner at sunset. A key challenge of designing Fulbeck Heights was marrying a shallow floor plate with indoor/outdoor living whilst maximising the view. At the same time respectfully observe and interpret vernacular characteristics. In doing so we have coined the term Roman Modern or RoMo. The principles underpinning Roman Villas, we believe, are more relevant than ever for the British climate.