The Growing House - Our Paragraph 80 House goes to Review Panel
Our paragraph 80 house project in the Forest of Bowland AONB has now been prepared for a final RIBA design review panel in April. We will be presenting the scheme and hoping that the review panel agree that the design is exceptional.
This is a unique design proposition that is truly client and site specific. The unique biodiverse and nature inclusive design features create a sustainable model and new vernacular for living in the landscape amid a habitat for animals and plants. The new house will be an energy-plus building through the use of renewable technologies and passivhaus design principles.
The house is being planted and encouraged to ‘grow’ from the site. The landscape is invited to grow around, in and over the new building. The building does not seek to compete with the landscape. It celebrates the existing landscape and allows the inhabitants to gaze at the beautiful surroundings within an environment that blurs the boundaries between the architecture and landscape.
The design is contextual and of its place. It captures and incapsulates the beauty of the surroundings and is biodiverse and nature inclusive.
KEY FEATURES
39% Biodiversity net gain
Passivhaus Standard
Contemporary home
Stunning countryside views
Paragraph 80 houses, previously known as Paragraph 79 houses or the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) Paragraph 79, are a type of planning permission in the UK that allows for the development of innovative and exceptional homes in rural areas. These houses are subject to strict planning regulations, with a focus on high-quality design, sustainability, and the protection of the countryside.
One of the key requirements of Paragraph 80 houses is that they must be "truly outstanding or innovative, reflecting the highest standards in architecture." This means that architects and builders must think creatively and push the boundaries of traditional housing design to create something truly exceptional. The homes must also demonstrate a clear benefit to the local community and environment, with an emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency.
Paragraph 80 houses are typically built on large plots of land, often in areas of outstanding natural beauty. This means that they must be carefully designed to blend in with their surroundings and minimize their impact on the environment. Architects and builders must work closely with planning authorities to ensure that their designs meet all of the necessary criteria, while also being sensitive to the needs of the local community.
In addition to their innovative design and sustainability features, Paragraph 80 houses are also subject to strict rules regarding their location and impact on the countryside. These rules are designed to ensure that the homes are truly exceptional and do not have a negative impact on the rural landscape.
Despite the strict planning regulations, there has been a growing demand for Paragraph 80 houses in recent years, particularly among high-net-worth individuals who are looking for a unique and sustainable home in the countryside. These homes can be expensive to build, with costs ranging from £500,000 to several million pounds, but they offer a level of exclusivity and luxury that is hard to find in other types of housing.
In conclusion, Paragraph 80 houses represent a unique opportunity for architects, builders, and homeowners to create exceptional homes in rural areas. While the planning regulations are strict, they are designed to ensure that these homes are of the highest quality and have a minimal impact on the environment. As demand for sustainable and innovative housing continues to grow, it is likely that the popularity of Paragraph 80 houses will only increase in the coming years.
If you are about to embark on your own Paragraph 80 journey, please get in touch with us to discuss how we can help.