This self-build house in South London has been designed to make the most of a challenging infill plot. The building is set into a sloping site and the stepped massing aligns to the eaves and ridge heights of the adjacent houses. The scheme was granted planning approval at committee in February 2021. Although the building form is distinctly modern, we have used familiar materials that respond to the area’s suburban character. Panels of decorative brickwork in a vertical bond add depth and interest to the facades. Their proportions and alignment with windows and doors has been carefully considered and tested with drawings and physical models. We are currently developing the detailed and interior design of the house in collaboration with our graphic designer client.