Old Knebworth Roundhouse Abandoned underground reservoir change of use
The redundant reservoir on Park Lane was advertised for sale by the water company in 2018.
It presented a perfect opportunity and challenge to bring our skills together to give a new life to an abandoned structure in our own neighbourhood.
Our plans for this 14m diameter disused water tank were modest and ambitious – we proposed to build a pioneering sustainable home which utilises the best of modern energy and insulation technologies whilst paying homage to the traditional architecture and values we know to be intrinsic to Knebworth Village and its surroundings
Initially designed for ourselves, we we lucky to have an understanding and insightful client who brought superb style and ideas to the final fit-out.
It was a challenging build, through pandemic, rising costs and shortage of materials but through hard work and perseverance the result is a stunning achievement by all who were involved
The build started in March 2022 and successfully completed and handed over in August 2024.
We have considered many elements in our design including:
- Historic heritage of the area
- Sustainability and carbon footprint
- Aspirations for the community
- Size and scale in the existing setting and landscape
- Existing streetscape
- Wellbeing and provision for all possible occupants
- Ecology and wildlife
- Neighbourhood opinions
We believe that rural design and restoration need not be deemed detrimental if done sympathetically and appropriately to its surroundings. Particularly with existing structures which have energy invested in their presence. We love the challenges presented to us by utilising and re-using existing materials and structures as they inevitably bring out more creative thinking by having to find new solutions to unique problems.
We are delighted to have obtained local support, full planning permission and completed build of this unique dream home and we have won 2 awards as a result.
Click
here to read more about the project. Click
here to read about our awards.
