The Studio

Low Energy Replacement Dwelling

  • Location: Waldringfield, Suffolk

    Project status: Planning

  • Fen Studio Architects were appointed in early 2024 to design a highly sustainable replacement dwelling on the quayside at Waldringfield, Suffolk. The proposal replaces an existing dwelling, known as The Studio with a contemporary home for the clients to enjoy in retirement, while continuing their long-standing connection with the village.

    The design responds to the rich history and character of Waldringfield’s shoreline. The steeply pitched and tapered roof forms reference the roof pitches of surrounding buildings, the triangular masts of the neighbouring boatyard, and the bottleneck kilns of the village’s former cement works, fragments of which remain close to the site. These animated forms break up the overall massing, create light-filled interiors, and frame views towards the River Deben and surrounding landscape. As the site lies within Flood Zone 3, the dwelling is also elevated to match neighbouring floor levels, ensuring resilience against future flood events.

    Positioned towards the northern boundary of the plot, the new dwelling makes best use of solar orientation, providing generous south-facing living spaces with a sheltered external terrace. Privacy between neighbouring properties is carefully managed through building placement, overhangs, and angled screening posts, while maintaining framed views to the east and south.

    A sustainable-first approach has driven all aspects of the design. The new home is designed to Passive House standards, with renewable energy systems including an air source heat pump, MVHR system, and an integrated photovoltaic array, which together ensure long-term energy efficiency.

    Externally, the proposal incorporates private south- and west-facing gardens, native planting, and a new wildlife pond, enhancing biodiversity on site while providing a tranquil setting closely tied to the riverside context.

Design Narratives: Kilns & Boats

Architect’s sketch showing early concept for the replacement dwelling at Waldringfield, with tapered roof forms inspired by boat masts and historic cement kilns
Historic photograph of Waldringfield cement works showing tapered kilns on the riverfront
phot of boats and masts at Waldringfield boatyard, showing the triangular forms that inspire the new dwelling’s design
Architect’s sketchbook held up on Waldringfield quay, showing drawings of tapered roof forms and boat masts with boats on the shoreline in the background

The Proposal

Architectural south elevation of the proposed replacement dwelling at Waldringfield, showing three tapered kiln-like roof forms
Architectural north elevation of the proposed replacement dwelling at Waldringfield, showing four tapered kiln-like roof forms
Architectural east elevation of the proposed replacement dwelling at Waldringfield, showing three tapered kiln-like roof forms
Architectural west elevation of the proposed replacement dwelling at Waldringfield, showing three tapered kiln-like roof forms
Architectural floor plans of the proposed Waldringfield dwelling, showing ground floor, first floor, and garage layout
Architectural section drawing, showing cross-sections of the tapered forms
CGI Visualisation of the proposed Waldringfield dwelling with tapered roof forms, brick cladding, and landscaped garden with wildlife pond
CGI Visualisation - garden terrace view of the proposed Waldringfield dwelling with outdoor seating, planting, and views into the living space
CGI visualisation of the Waldringfield dwelling’s private courtyard with brick-clad wall, timber loungers, planting, and garden gate
CGI visualisation of the Waldringfield dwelling viewed from above, showing tapered brick-clad roof forms, private garden, and surrounding riverside context
CGI visualisation of the Waldringfield dwelling viewed from the lane, showing tapered brick-clad roof forms partially hidden by planting
CGI visualisation of the Waldringfield dwelling from the lane, showing brick cladding, angled wall, and tapered roof forms with surrounding greenery
CGI visualisation of the Waldringfield dwelling viewed from the entrance gate, showing tapered brick-clad roof forms and driveway with parked car
CGI visualisation of the Waldringfield dwelling viewed from the lane, showing brick boundary wall, tapered roof forms, and neighbouring houses
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