The one-acre site lies in picturesque Suffolk countryside on the outskirts of Ashbocking, surrounded by farmland and sitting within a wider context that includes a large existing house and gardens. The site formerly contained decaying semi-industrial buildings that were dismantled. Accessed via a long lane, the secluded plot retains its mature trees and hedges, interplanted to screen the countryside beyond and act as a wildlife corridor.
The development consists of five two-storey dwellings, each with private parking and amenity space. The layout was conceived as a series of connected agricultural buildings arranged around a central courtyard ; a rural yard that serves as a fitting counterpart to the grand 'Red House' and gardens adjacent. The dwellings have traditional forms and materials utilised in a contemporary manner, echoing the local agricultural Suffolk vernacular in character, scale and height. Their simple forms sit comfortably within the landscape, remaining subservient to the host property.
The materials palette reflects a contemporary rural vernacular, drawing design cues from local barns and agricultural buildings with an emphasis on aesthetics, sustainability and durability. External walls are predominantly red brick and larch cladding treated to weather naturally. Principal roofs are red clay pantiles, while the carports feature corrugated metal roofing.
The dwellings exemplify low-energy housing, balancing reduced energy consumption with user comfort. A high degree of airtightness and air source heat pumps are incorporated throughout. The overarching concept was to create a repairable, enduring set of buildings that foster a genuine sense of community for the long term.
Shortlisted for the RIBA Suffolk Design Award 2025