Maen Valley: A Refined Approach to Contemporary Rural Living
Set within the picturesque Maen Valley, this project is a striking example of contemporary architecture seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape. Designed by Laurence Associates, the home replaces an existing block barn and takes full advantage of the sloping site through a carefully considered reverse living layout.
The design places open-plan living spaces on the upper floor, providing expansive views over the landscaped garden, while the five-bedroom accommodation and an indoor swimming pool open out onto a lower planted courtyard. This enclosed, sheltered outdoor space has been thoughtfully developed by Laurence Associates’ landscape architects, incorporating stepped terraces, a water feature, and white-stemmed birch trees that visually link with the surrounding landscape. A hedge separates the courtyard from the entrance drive, creating a sense of privacy and tranquillity.
Material selection was key to ensuring the home respects its rural surroundings. A palette of natural timber and stone references traditional farmstead developments, while gabled massing and a natural slate roof echo the local architectural vernacular. A key feature of the design is the use of hidden gutters, removing typical domestic elements such as fascias and exposed guttering to maintain the clean, barn-like gable aesthetics.
The project was delivered in a two-stage planning process, with an initial outline permission to replace the barn, followed by full approval for the detailed design. Laurence Associates’ expertise in planning and architectural design ensured a smooth process, resulting in a beautifully resolved home that balances contemporary design with heritage influences.
For more on Laurence Associates’ architectural expertise, visit laurenceassociates.co.uk or call +44 (0) 1872 225 259.
We are proud to feature and promote in our architecture magazine: Maen Valley — a refined approach to rural living
