Winning the RIBA South Award this year is a home strengthened by challenges faced. What does it take to bring a considered, contemporary design, set within a conservation area, through to fruition?

Situated next to a cricket ground nestled in the Chiltern Hills, in the town of Old Amersham, is House 19. This project, designed by Heinz Richardson of Jestico + Whiles, won the RIBA South Award 2016 and was long-listed for the RIBA House of the Year 2016. It has been described by the institute as “mature architecture that does not need to shout”; with its open spaces, clever incorporation of sustainable technology, and outstanding quality, the jury “unreservedly loved this house”.

Richardson’s design takes advantage of the site’s location, with windows framing the surrounding Chiltern hills. Everything in the design is considered and considerate; the way in which the levels are built provides minimal impact to the neighbouring property, and finishing this award-winning build is a clock fixed upon the chimney, providing a secondary timekeeper for the adjacent cricket grounds.

Further reflecting the building’s context, the materials used have been chosen for their ability to both perform sustainably and to recall the wider landscape. Traditional and natural materials and design have been used throughout; cedar cladding and flint have been used in a modern way, whilst reflecting the vernacular. Initially unable to gain planning permission, this appealingly light home has become an example in how to create a new build in a conservation area.

The technologies housed within the building are extensive, but unobtrusive, and allow it to have incredible ‘eco­credentials’. Ground source heat pumps, earth tube vent system, passive solar gain and rain water harvesting systems are just some of the ways in which House 19’s sustainability was a primary aim from drawing board to completion.

House 19 well deserves its recognition; it shows how every home can overcome the challenges of context. In this project, Richardson faced obstacles from conservation to technology, and has produced a home which is stronger because of them. This is the beauty of House 19; how it overcomes these trials so effortlessly.

Check out more images in the gallery below.