Guildford House
Project Particulars
- Project
- Guildford House
- Clients
- Private
- Local Authority
- Guildford Borough Council
- Size
- 615m²
- Construction Cost
- Confidential
Project Team
- Architect
- Phillips Tracey Architects
- Structural Engineer
- Bolton Priestley
- Landscape Architect
- Churchman Thornhill Finch
- Quantity Surveyor
- Castle Hayes Pursey
Guildford House is a replacement dwelling at the edge of Guildford, situated within the Green Belt and Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The proposal responds to this sensitive context by maintaining the ridge height of the original property while improving views through the site to the surrounding countryside.
Our inspiration was the casual grouping of farm buildings in the locality. Their fragmented yet cohesive quality seemed a good model for a dwelling in this location
A key driver was the importance of the view and the desire to place the main living spaces at a point on the site that would optimise the outlook.
The design was further refined through detailed discussions with the client and their desire to combine local distinctiveness with contemporary elements.
The building combines traditional forms with a contemporary expression. Steeply pitched plain tile roofs to the masonry elements are paired with lighter structures and shallow metal roofs. The plan responds to both the outlook and exposure, creating sheltered external spaces while maintaining strong visual connections to the landscape.
Chimneys are treated as sculptural elements, referencing the tradition of Arts and Craft architecture, and act as vertical markers within the composition. Openings are carefully arranged to balance mass and light.
Guildford House offers a considered response to a constrained site, reinforcing the character of the area while introducing a contemporary approach to rural housing.
Frequently asked questions
How do you design a house around exceptional views?
The layout of Guildford House was shaped by its elevated position and long views across the Surrey countryside. Living spaces are carefully positioned to maximise outlook, while terrace and glazing strengthen the connection between the home and the landscape.
How can a large house sit comfortably within a sensitive landscape?
Instead of a single, dominant building, Guildford House is composed of a series of interconnected volumes inspired by traditional farmstead buildings. This approach reduces visual impact and helps the house sit naturally within its surroundings.
What are the challenges of designing within the Green Belt and AONB?
Projects in protected landscapes require a careful balance between architectural ambition and environmental sensitivity. Guildford House demonstrates how thoughtful design can respond positively to planning constraints while enhancing the character and openness of a site.
How do architecture and landscape work together?
At Guildford House, architecture and landscape were developed as a single strategy. The building's form, terraces, planting and views are all interconnected creating a seamless relationship between the home and its setting.
