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Holton Lee; Site map @ 1: 2500



Writers Retreat.

January 2013.

 

As an introduction to my architectural education the brief for ARC 451 outlined the intentions to design a proposal for a “writers retreat” a small scale dwelling with the express purpose of accommodating a writer able to immerse themselves within the natural landscape. 

 

Situated in Holton Lee, a nature reserve located in proximity to Poole, the design was one, which challenged perceptions of environmental design, and the structures ability to adapt to the challenging landscape.Students were required to visit the largely undefined site, locate and specify their own place upon which to instigate their design and process.  Despite other perhaps more isolated locations, the proposed site sat upon the boundary of land and sea engaging the user and offering a decidedly more stimulating environment in which to conduct their works. 

A simple programmatic approach facilitated the designs ability to adhere to the context, a large stone wall separating the private and public functions of the building which in turn ejected towards to coast, evoking concepts associated with the building having risen from its surroundings. 

 

A sensitive approach was undertaken with regards to the aesthetic in the form of locally sourced reclaimed timbers cladding the habitable areas, alongside an expansive cantilevered platform projecting the writer and their thoughts outward to achieve a fully immersed experience. 

 

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