Prospect Farm – Carbon Neutral Developement, Lancashire

The innovative architectural design located on Green Belt Land and sustainability credentials such as carbon neutral, environmental, economic growth and social improvements proposed for the site will be amongst the first in Poulton-le-Fylde to hold such a rating significantly enhancing the area in design and sustainability credentials.

The development comprises of four carbon natural, bespoke dwellings. Currently, the site is occupied by agricultural buildings and a farmhouse with associated hardstanding. The agricultural buildings are in a poor state of disrepair and are an eyesore, providing an unappealing view from Amounderness Way, which is a key access road to and from the M55 motorway.

We have designed the buildings with minimal detailing using a palette of materials that reflect the local vernacular –a mix of stonework and metal cladding. The pitched roofs are fabricated from zinc and flush-fitting roof lights and windows allow daylight to flood through the internal floor levels.

As a detached family home, each one is unique in layout, and they respond to the lifestyles of those who will live in them through a hierarchy of spaces rising from the ground to roof levels.

The landscaping strategy for the site follows an ecological path using native plants and trees to promote biodiversity within a natural environment. The shared access areas are planted with trees, shrubs and wildflowers.

The design, appearance, scale, volume and massing have been a key consideration making sure that we also meet other NPPF policy such as Paragraph 145(g) ‘not cause substantial harm to the openness of the Green Belt’ and paragraph 79 ‘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 overall layout has been designed with 21st century living in mind, ensuring comfortable and practical living arrangements. Each unit features open plan living and dining as well as additional private living and study rooms. All bedrooms include an en-suite bathroom and are complemented with large expanses of full height glazing, making the most of the countryside views, at the same time ensuring light and airy appearance on the outside.

''I would highly recommend Carter’s building consultancy. Not only has Harry been absolutely fantastic in his approach, but he has given some amazing design ideas. I wouldn’t say the process has been easy but going through the process with Harry who has stuck by our side throughout the difficult ups and downs has made it all the more worth it. The constant nagging from us, the constant out of hours calls to him and his approach to it all has been the same (outstanding) throughout. What an extremely talented person and a company that we are privileged to have helped build our homes. Thank you''

Avneet and Sunny Doel - Client and Landonwers