MortonScarr met with the Client for this project on an empty greenfield site located on the edge of a village in Sussex with the idea to build a new one-off house. The client wanted inspiration and ideas for a new build contemporary family home having always lived in period properties. The site is adjacent to a conservation area and listed buildings which influenced the design orientation and location. There are a number of large mature trees and the brief was to create a family home with interesting internal spaces and connect with the external areas Planning was achieved on the first attempt following extensive dialogue with the conservation team and planning department. The design is formed around Courtyards, the main one which is positioned around an existing copper beech tree on the site. A layered design with a large natural stone wall helps to block noise from road , the entrance for this house is through this large stone wall, which leads to a glazed walkway overlooking the main courtyard. The ground floor features split level living with large family open plan living and kitchen space, a double height dining room with feature local stone wall and living spaces which connect with the rear garden with private wood area, and a swimming pool which runs level with the new house The first floor includes a series of bedrooms spread around a landing which connects back to the main courtyard. The master bedroom, which has a private sheltered terrace also overlooks the swimming pool and rear garden.