We first worked alongside Matthew Wilson when he designed the planting scheme for the incredible gardens at Seaton Delaval Hall. This week we were delighted that he was announced as the winner of the ‘Large Residential Landscapes and Gardens’ Award by the Society of Garden Designers for his work at Acomb High House. His stunning design compliments the existing house and contemporary extension which we worked closely with the client to deliver.
This eighteenth century Grade II listed village property had been neglected over the past 50 years and poor turn of the century design had caused more problems than it solved. The house itself had been poorly converted to create tight, dark spaces lacking relationship to the fine walled garden beyond.
Mosedale Gillatt Architects were engaged to work closely with the owners to demolish part of the building and create a sensitive contemporary extension in its place. Selective demolition of later (turn of the century) additions to the original 17th and 18th century dwelling opened the main house back up, to reveal fantastic volumes and light airy spaces. Our work re-balanced circulation and entrance which had been lost with a myriad of historical changes and alterations.
With sustainability at the forefront of everything we do, the scheme set a balance between the historical significance of the building and improvements to the building fabric and thermal performance. This included the use of insulating lime plaster incorporating cork aggregates, natural sheep's wool insulation and solar hot water panels. Embodied carbon was also considered with extensive areas of historic masonry, including a feature carved doorway, salvaged from a demolished outbuilding and reused between areas of British sweet chestnut boarding and zinc cladding.
What the Judges said 'A carefully considered design which blends beautifully into the surrounding hills while enhancing the architecture of the house and buildings. Existing materials, original features and established plants have been thoughtfully integrated alongside a planting palette that demonstrates gently blended colour combinations and textures.'
Images courtesy of Matthew Wilson