"Explore the transformation of a 70s bungalow into a contemporary residence boasting eco-friendly elements" - Discover the remarkable renovation here
In a South Yorkshire town, Stephen and Helen Surtees embarked on a journey to create their ideal home from scratch. Frustrated by the lack of houses that met their needs, they decided to demolish a dated 1970s two-bedroom bungalow and replace it with a modern, sustainable self-build home.
The couple enlisted the help of Andy Thomas from Thread Architects, whom they had worked with 10 years earlier. Inspired by Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona Pavilion, they wanted a minimalist feel for their home. Andy presented three maquette models, and the couple chose the one that best represented their vision.
The demolition of the original bungalow began during the first week of lockdown, but was stop-start due to unclear government guidelines. The only significant issues during the build were caused by material shortages towards the end. Despite these challenges, the finished house is a testament to the couple's determination and Andy's design.
The house is finished in locally sourced ashlar Hampole fine limestone, robust buff brickwork, and natural slate. The house's external envelope is built using structurally insulated panels, ensuring energy efficiency. The contemporary feel and modern aesthetic are evident in the split-level space, large sliding doors, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and open-plan kitchen diner.
The open-plan space contains the kitchen, dining, and snug area, providing a spacious and uncluttered living environment. One of the bedrooms doubles up as a home office, while another bedroom leads to a separate garden room via stepping stones across an outdoor pool. There are two outdoor entertaining areas, and the kitchen links externally to an upper terrace with a barbecue outdoor kitchen.
The rear of the house opens up into a series of spectacular contemporary internal and external living spaces that link to each other. The owners appreciate the home automation features, including electric blinds, an eco heating system, electric Velux windows, and automatic motion sensor lighting.
The front of the house and front door use a limited palette of high-quality crafted materials to create a bold and expressive entrance and front garden. By integrating conservation-friendly materials, simple but efficient design, energy-saving strategies, and clean open-plan modern aesthetics, the Surtees have created a sustainable minimalist home that fits beautifully within a conservation area.
The house is energy-efficient, with the log burner not being used yet. The main bedroom has a dressing area, adding a touch of luxury to this minimalist home. Despite the challenges faced during the build, the Surtees family can now enjoy their modern, sustainable self-build home, a testament to their vision and Andy Thomas's design.
- The Surtees decided to renovate their home, replacing a dated 1970s bungalow with a modern, sustainable self-build home.
- Inspired by Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona Pavilion, the couple aimed for a minimalist design in their home.
- Andy Thomas from Thread Architects, whom they had worked with before, presented three maquette models, and they chose the one that best represented their vision.
- The kitchen in the open-plan space, with its contemporary aesthetics, is a key component of the home's overall design.
- The bathroom, bedrooms, and garden room provide a comfortable living and working space for the family.
- Ideas for the home's lighting, including automatic motion sensor lighting, were integrated into the project to create a practical and efficient living environment.
- The house's design features energy-saving strategies, such as an eco heating system and energy-efficient windows, contributing to sustainable living.
- The extension of the home, including the addition of a conservatory and an upper terrace, has increased the family's living space and improved their lifestyle.
- The Surtees' home, built with locally sourced materials, is a beautiful example of conservation-friendly construction within a conservation area.
- The Surtees' renovation project has resulted in a stunning modern home that not only meets their needs but also helps them live a more sustainable lifestyle.
