This mock-tudor 1990’s family home is set on a large and verdant plot bounded by ancient woodland. The brief was to improve the appearance of the house and to extend the property to maximise living space and make the most of the setting. The beautiful surroundings presented a planning challenge, as the house is set within the Ayot St Lawrence Conservation Area and the Metropolitan Green Belt. Studio Bua successfully negotiated with the Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council Planning department to secure planning and conservation area consent. The existing house will be remodelled, with the addition of a new larch clad volume and glazed link. The foundations of an existing garage are to be reused, with screw piles used to extend while protecting the beautiful mature trees along the boundary of the site.