The client for this private house is owner of a number of specialist brickworks. His desire was to encourage the use of local natural resources and materials in construction and he recognises that traditional crafts are still relevant in our community today and that they are able to contribute positively to the visual and social amenity of the community. His vision is to see these traditions evolve and brought into the 21st century. The design seeks to create a 21st century vernacular suitable for the local community, one that recognises local climate, resource and skills, energy efficiency and character.The organic design solution was ‘evolved’ from a response to site constraints, passive energy requirements, local construction skills and materials. The need for privacy and quietness are positively encouraged. Natural light and maximising views across the valley have also influenced the design approach. Low energy (both operational and embodied) solutions have been adopted and these include passive solar design, and a ground source heat exchange system for heating. The building is super insulated and makes considerable use of low processed products. The basic diagram of the house layout is based on the tradition of having the fire as the social and communal focus of the home