Compact Dwelling | Brighton
A cleverly designed, four-storey low-energy home in a tight urban plot within a Conservation Area
Sue and Sarah wanted to downsize from their large, energy-hungry Victorian semi in the heart of the Preston Park Conservation Area — but they weren’t ready to leave the neighbourhood they loved. Fortunately, they owned a small back plot with a double garage and road access, offering an exciting opportunity.
We saw the potential right away and designed a new, energy-efficient retirement home that sensitively responds to its context — sitting beside a Victorian church (a listed heritage asset) and within a tightly constrained conservation site.
This three-bedroom detached home unfolds across four compact levels. To reduce its visual impact and respect the historic street scene, we placed the main living space at basement level, filled with natural light from a sunken courtyardthat also brings a strong indoor-outdoor feel. The dining area opens onto a rear terrace, offering a secluded spot to enjoy the garden.
The ground floor houses the kitchen and dining area, while the upper floors accommodate three well-proportioned bedrooms, ample storage, a bathroom and a separate shower room — all carefully designed to maximise space and comfort.
Built to high sustainability standards, this compact home includes a solar PV array for on-site renewable energy and a mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery (MVHR) to ensure year-round comfort, fresh air, and low energy bills.
Now settled into their bright, warm and efficient new home, Sue and Sarah are enjoying the next chapter of life — with less energy use and more ease, all in the neighbourhood they love.
"Mark came up with a wonderful design which maximises the natural attributes of our rural site”
Geoff & Gail Aucock
“Mark’s contribution has been invaluable. I have recommended him to others and I would be happy to work with him again”
Ruth Stoton
“Mark has been very straight-forward and professional and has given me sound practical advice.”
Roger Ross
“Working with Mark was a fantastic experience from start to finish. We couldn't have been happier with the end result.”
Andrew & Emma Wilkie
"It's his quiet confidence that makes you feel more confident about what it is you’re doing. We would definitely recommend working with Mark from Koru."
Adele O’Hehir
"Koru Architects have been a 'breath of fresh air’ in helping me develop my concept and taking this through to design."
Gino Fox
"Mark’s designs have been very innovative, making good use of a difficult site. His service has pleased me enormously!"
Herb Etkin
Ready to discuss a project? Get in touch today.
01273 204065
info@koruarchitects.co.uk
Studio 221, 91 Western Road,
Brighton and Hove, BN1 2NW
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