Bespoke hillside home in Hazelwood, Duffield.

Completion of a bespoke hillside home in Hazelwood, near Duffield. This 3,600 sq ft property, designed for Casamia Homes, features three innovative storeys that maximise living space while capturing breathtaking views across the Ecclesbourne valley.

The client's brief was to provide contemporary, open-plan living accommodation that maximises natural daylight and views to the south, ensuring the architecture remains in keeping with the local vernacular.

The main entrance of the dwelling has a double-height glazed screen with a projecting aluminium canopy over the door. From the roadside, this design affords views through the house to the picturesque landscape beyond. The entrance is framed by two double-height gables, creating a grand yet welcoming impression.

The exterior materials were carefully chosen to reflect the surrounding vernacular in a contemporary fashion. A mix of split-faced and ashlar natural stone with buff-coloured facing brickwork pays homage to the surrounding buildings and landscape. The lower ground floor, clad in split-faced stone, visually anchors the house to the landscape. The main body of the house uses facing bricks, while the upper floors of the projecting bays are also in split stone. The panel to the left of the front door in ashlar cut-stone signifies the formal entrance, with simple yet functional window sill and head detailing adding interest through material variation.

Inside, the home features a basement bar and party room, an open-plan kitchen/diner, and a dual-aspect lounge with a striking fireplace. The three en-suite bedrooms include a vaulted master with an open-plan dressing room. Additional amenities such as a double garage, sun terrace, and a sunken courtyard to the rear complete the dwelling.

Energy efficiency is a key component of the design, with a PV solar system and underfloor heating powered by an Air Source Heat Pump. Modern smart control systems manage heating, A/C ventilation, networks, CCTV, audio/visual, and lighting throughout both the interior and exterior of the property.

Architect Matthew Montague expressed his pleasure in designing this unique home, highlighting the importance of tailoring the design to the stunning countryside location. The thoughtful selection of materials and architectural details ensure the home blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings while offering contemporary living spaces.

The finished result is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the architect, builders, and the client, culminating in a bespoke home that stands as a landmark of contemporary, sustainable architecture in Hazelwood.

If you would like advice on architectural services or planning permission contact Louise Jones on 01335 330510 or email louise.jones@matthewmontague.co.uk