The applicant approached AW+A Architects with a view to developing a bespoke, environmentally responsive home, set in land adjacent to his current home in open countryside on the outskirts of Bolton. Paragraph 79 of National Planning Policy states the following: Planning policies and decisions should avoid the development of isolated homes in the countryside unless one or more of the following circumstances apply: a) there is an essential need for a rural worker, including those taking majority control of a farm business, to live permanently at or near their place of work in the countryside; b) the development would represent the optimal viable use of a heritage asset or would be appropriate enabling development to secure the future of heritage assets; c) the development would re-use redundant or disused buildings and enhance it immediate setting; d) the development would involve the subdivision of an existing residential dwelling; or e) the design is of exceptional quality, in that it: - is truly outstanding or innovative, reflecting the highest standards in architecture, and would help to raise standards of design more generally in rural areas; and - would significantly enhance its immediate setting, and be sensitive to the defining characteristics of the local area. The site borders Wayoh reservoir and benefits from views of the valley beyond. Through lengthy discussions and brief analysis with the applicant, a design was generated which looked to meet all of the clients aspirations for a future family home as well as trying to overcome the strict planning constraints on such a site. The applicant has aspirations to create a one-off piece of architecture that responds to the setting, the local ecology and provides a low carbon and sustainable piece of architecture. The key points of the client brief are noted below: • Sustainable design solutions which are innovative and practical • Innovative and sustainable materials • Flagship building of outstanding design and quality • Minimise running costs • Maximise views and visibility into the woodland and the open water beyond • A flexible and contemporary family home • All rooms to have a view • As much natural light as possible • Open plan kitchen, dining and living areas • Defined sleeping areas • Double garage The client had an open mind in terms of the design, as long as it was innovative and met the requirements of the brief. The design was developed with this in mind, and we looked to push the brief as far as possible to exceed the clients expectations.