M house moves toward final completion

The M House is a collaboration with Moohus and is reaching the final stages of completion. The existing timber frame barn structure has been retained and a modern 4 bed wing addition has been added which bounds a large south facing outdoor living courtyard/garden.

The existing structure was initially propped which allowed a strip foundation and the necessary damp proofing to be installed to bring the dwelling up to a habitable level. High volumes of external insulation aim to bring the house up to Code for Sustainable homes – Level 4/5. The entire external structure is self draining to the perimeter which allows seamless detailing of the Sweet Chestnut timber rainscreen cladding.

Modern technologies including solar heating, whole house ventilation, LED lighting and heat pump generated underfloor heating assist in delivering a comfortable family home with large open plan living and entertaining spaces.

Re-interpretation of an English beach house

BAS Mooarc completed a feasibility study for a potential new-build dwelling in North Devon. An initial concept diagram offers a re-interpretation of an English beach house. The east west route provides gallery space and a zone for storage and services, whilst the north south route focuses on framing views, overlooking a protected courtyard and the spectacular landscape of Saunton Sands.

Pre-application discussions in progress for listed Guernsey farmhouse

BAS Mooarc recently carried out a feasibility study for alterations and additions to a listed farmhouse in Vale, Guernsey. The scheme comprises a basement and two-storey extension to the rear of the property. Pre-application discussions are currently in progress with the Planning Department.

Guernsey Brewery Proposals under consultation

 

On behalf of our client Comprop (C.I.) Ltd, BAS Mooarc submitted a planning application for the former Guernsey Brewery site in December 2011. The Redevelopment of the former Bucktrouts Brewery and surrounding site, offers a compelling community, civic and architectural opportunity. The proposals include the following:

• A master plan for the whole site including significant improvements to the public realm and seafront walk.

• Retention of the familiar form and character of the existing ‘Old Brewery’ Building through faithful reconstruction and retention of important features.

• Residential development comprising 37 units of accommodation with associated covered, secure car parking. The units are distributed between the front site fronting South Esplanade and the rear site running along The Strand.

A public exhibition was held last month at Les Cotils, which provided an opportunity for the public to review the proposals in more detail and to discuss issues directly with key members of the design and client team.

The Environment Department are currently reviewing the proposals and consulting with interested parties.

Mont Havelet team celebrates topping out

With the final steel framed structure now constructed at the top most floor of Mont Havelet, all involved with the project have recently come together for the topping out celebrations.

The building has received all its windows, including delivery of the curved glass, craned to the top floor in two pieces, ultimately making the building weather-tight.

Works are continuing externally with the cladding items being installed, including limestone and granite, and internally, the fit-out is well underway.

The project will provide three residential apartments, each of which have fantastic views out to the East, over the valley and over-looking Castle Cornet.

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BAS Mooarc leads first straw bale construction in Guernsey at Les Piques Farm

In response to the sustainability requirements of clients James and Claire Watts of Les Piques Farm, BAS Mooarc Architect Simon Cottell has designed an affordable and eco-friendly straw bale extension to the existing 1970s bungalow. Approximately 150 straw bales, home-grown and harvested by the clients, were used to provide highly insulated load bearing walls. UK based firm Amazonails provided training and on-site technical support to a team of local volunteers and the main structure was successfully completed within one week of being on-site.

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