Pavilion Wodborough

Modern white house with large glass windows and a well-maintained lawn, surrounded by trees.

Our brief was to replace an aging 1960s bungalow with a striking, contemporary single-storey residence.

About the project

A Modernist Sanctuary in the Green Belt

Located within the Nottingham and Derbyshire Green Belt and sharing a boundary with the Woodborough Conservation Area, this project presented a complex planning landscape. Through a process of careful site analysis and proactive collaboration with Gedling Borough Council, we secured approval for a design that is respectful of its location while drawing influence from mid-century modern masters such as Mies van der Rohe and Philip Johnson.

Precision in Environmental Design

In creating a home defined by expansive glazing, managing solar gain was a central challenge. We utilized advanced 3D modeling to simulate the sun’s trajectory throughout the year, which directly informed our design strategy. By incorporating deep roof overhangs and specialized solar-reflective glazing, we successfully bridged the divide between the interior and the private gardens while ensuring the home remains temperate and comfortable in every season. This is supported by a high-performance building envelope, with high insulation levels throughout the walls and roof.

Full-Service Project Management

In architecture, the vision is only as good as its execution. To ensure that the quality of our design was realized in every detail, our practice took over the lead in the construction process. Beyond our role as lead designers, we took on the management of the entire build—programming works, obtaining quotes, procuring trades, and maintaining a full-time site presence for over a year.

Uncompromising Craftsmanship

By taking a hands-on approach to the construction and final finishes, we were able to ensure an exceptional standard of craftsmanship to the house and gardens. This level of dedication allowed us to deliver a residence of quality—a project that stands as a testament to the power of design and the value of meticulous oversight. The result is a truly beautiful modern home.

Modern white house with large glass windows, green lawn, and landscaped garden under a clear blue sky.
Modern white house with large glass windows, a green lawn, and a concrete pathway leading to the entrance, surrounded by trees and landscaping under a clear blue sky.
Modern white house with large glass windows and a well-maintained green lawn, trees in the background, and a clear blue sky.
Modern white house with large glass doors, a flat patio, and a gravel garden with a small reddish-brown tree under a clear blue sky.
Modern white house with large glass windows, surrounded by a landscaped garden with neatly trimmed grass, young trees, and small bushes, under a blue sky.
Modern white house with large windows, surrounded by landscaped yard with grass, small trees, and potted plants, and a paved driveway.
Modern white house with large glass windows, a stone pathway leading to the front steps, two potted trees, and a well-maintained green lawn under a clear blue sky.
Modern living room with large glass windows, potted plant, black fireplace, black leather sofa, and colorful artwork.
Modern open-plan kitchen and living area with large windows, gray cabinetry, black island, and yellow armchair, overlooking a lush green outdoor space.
Modern bathroom with a dark freestanding bathtub, a wall-mounted sink with two faucets, a potted plant, and a large window view of a landscaped outdoor area with trees, grass, and stone features.
Modern bathroom featuring a white freestanding bathtub, a small white sink with a mirror above, and a skylight with a view of the sky.
Modern shower with blue walls, a skylight, a black shower head, and a small window reflecting outdoor scenery.
Modern art gallery with concrete walls and a colorful abstract painting on the back wall featuring circles and curves in red, blue, orange, beige, and black, with a polished concrete floor.
A modern hallway with a large glass door at the end, outside trees and a bench visible. The right wall is decorated with a colorful abstract painting, and there are black wall sconces. The left side features a wooden slat wall and what appears to be
Modern hallway with polished concrete floor, beige wall with colorful artwork, and black wooden sliding door leading into a living space with large windows, a chair, and a view of trees outside.

How the client thought it went…

It is a pleasure to provide this reference for John, the architect behind my recently completed home. From our very first meeting to the final touches on the landscaping, John has been an invaluable partner, guide, and advocate.

The process began with John truly listening to my requirements and lifestyle needs. He didn’t just hear them; he translated them into an extraordinary design that far exceeded anything I could have imagined. He has a rare ability to balance bold, contemporary aesthetics with practical livability.

John’s expertise was evident long before the first stone was laid. He cleverly managed the planning application process, navigating potential hurdles with ease. Once approved, he produced incredibly detailed construction drawings. These were essential in capturing the intricate detailing required for a high-quality contemporary build, ensuring no element of the design was left to chance.

What truly sets John apart, however, is his dedication when challenges arise. When we encountered significant issues with our initial builder, John didn’t just offer advice—he stepped in and took over the project management and construction himself. This was well above and beyond the remit of a traditional architect. By taking the reins, he ensured that the high-quality finish we both envisioned was actually achieved. It was a masterclass in versatility and demonstrated his profound, hands-on knowledge of the construction process.

Throughout this journey, John "held my hand" through every decision. He was consistently helpful, patient, and professional. Whether it was the initial briefing or the final completion of the house and gardens, I felt completely supported.

I cannot recommend John highly enough. If you are looking for an architect who combines creative brilliance with grit, technical precision, and unwavering integrity, John is the person for the job.

Adam Quincey

Architecture done right.

This is what's possible when design and attention to detail come together.
Curious what we could create for your home? Send a message today.

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