House Lessans, Saintfield 2014-2018

A modest dwelling in the countryside.

The plot contained a derelict but elegant traditional barn and had expansive views of the drumlin landscape.

The house comprises 2 elements which are arranged to create enclosure with the existing barn, and to engage with the landscape. The new elements are expressed as simple forms enclosing large volumes; steel roofs on masonry walls creating a datum which maintains the same level inside and out, between rooms and external spaces at different levels, reinforcing an idea about how to make contemporary buildings in our countryside. This new collection of forms are embedded into the landscape to minimise the impact from the road and to integrate the house into the site. Internally a calm sequence of rooms and carefully proportioned windows relate to views of both private courtyards and the landscape.

The project was delivered to an exacting budget using simple construction methods and materials.

RIBA House of the Year Winner 2019

RIBA National Award 2019

RIBA Regional Award / RSUA Design Award 2019

AAI Awards - Special Mention 2019