Portfolio of A-Squared Architects, Norwich, Norfolk
14a South Avenue
This house was designed for a family who had bought a plot of land at auction. The site was formerly part of a large garden associated with an early 20C arts and crafts house and is located on South Avenue in Thorpe St Andrew. South Avenue gently slopes down the valley to the river Yare, the sloping topography inspired the initial concept for the form of the house which reflects the land-fall with gently sloping shallow mono-pitched roofs that are emphasised with deep overhangs. The roofs are finished with standing seam metal panels that wrap around the eaves to create a simple consistent eaves detail, concealed gutters help to keep the eaves uncluttered. The external walls are finished with mineral silicate render and cedar boards. The house is two storey at the front and steps down to single storey at the rear where the main living, kitchen and family areas enjoy south facing aspects overlooking the gardens and a decked terrace. The house is energy efficient, being highly insulated and airtight with triple glazing used throughout and incorporates a mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery (MVHR). MVHR is an efficient method of heating fresh air supplied during the colder months.
