RX Architects has completed two rural residential projects – Holmwood Farm in Wadhurst, East Sussex, and Meadowgate in Wittersham, Kent. Both projects involved converting existing structures into modern single-family homes, with a focus on sustainability, energy efficiency and maximizing connectivity to the surrounding landscape.
Meadowgate, Wittersham, Kent
Meadowgate, a 3,500-square-foot, four-bedroom home, adapts a 1970s bungalow originally built as workers' housing. The property is set within 22 hectares of farmland and mature woodland in an area of outstanding natural beauty.
The original one-story structure was transformed into an “upside down house” with the addition of a new first floor. The living spaces have been moved upstairs to maximize previously unexploited landscape views, with cantilevered terraces and glazed corners on the upper level.
To support the additional floor, a steel frame was inserted into the original structure, while the existing walls were sheathed in insulation and finished with black plaster. The upper level was constructed with timber frame panels for a lightweight, highly insulated envelope. Triple glazing was installed throughout and the roof was covered in wildflowers to encourage biodiversity.
Sustainability measures include a geothermal circuit buried in the surrounding land that provides heating and cooling. This system is supplemented by a solar system with battery storage.
The new first floor features black-stained wood cladding with triangular profiles, designed to blend with the wooded backdrop. The landscape includes gardens for food and flower production, reflecting the owners' passion for gardening.
Holmwood Farm, Wadhurst, East Sussex
Holmwood Farm is a 4,000 square meter four bedroom home in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The project involved transforming a run-down 1980s red brick bungalow to create a modern family residence. The aim of the design was to create open, flexible spaces that connect the interior spaces with the surrounding landscape.
The existing structure was retained to reduce costs and minimize the environmental impact of the project. The house features a large solar system, heat pumps, natural ventilation and newly installed insulation behind the newly clad exterior. These measures aim to reduce the long-term running costs and carbon footprint of the home.
Externally, the house is clad in charred wood and has a zinc standing seam roof. New large flat roof dormers were added to the original structure. Indoors, polished concrete floors were laid as a thermal mass, designed to retain and gradually release heat while remaining cool in summer.
Landscaping includes a natural swimming pool and newly landscaped gardens.