Paragraph 80 Homes And Good Landscape Design

A new home in the country

While considered architectural design can navigate the challenges of securing planning permission for a new countryside home, what role does landscape & garden design play in realising your dream and creating an extraordinary home?

What is Paragraph 80?

Part of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF),  Paragraph 80 is a piece of legislation that was introduced to ensure that new homes built in isolated or sensitive areas of the countryside are of outstanding design and quality.

The policy states that the design of the new home must be “of exceptional quality, in that it:

– is truly outstanding, reflecting the highest standards in architecture and would help to raise standards of design more generally in rural areas; and

– would significantly enhance its immediate setting and be sensitive to the defining characteristics of the local area.”

The importance of the landscape

Crucial to the overall success of the scheme will be an outstanding landscape masterplan that can demonstrate a positive impact to the site and one that will significantly enhance its immediate setting. To realise this the design must:

– be sensitive to the site and ‘to the defining characteristics of the local area’.

– ensure that the landscape is as sustainable as possible, seeking to use local materials when available.

– ensure that the inspiration behind the design draws on the history of the site, to create a narrative that places the house comfortably within in its geographical context.

– resolve the seemingly impossible; to stand out whilst blending in.

These are not simple goals to achieve. Expertise, creative flair and a genuine partnership between client, architect and landscape designer will be essential.

Start the conversation. If you wish to discuss a new project, please click the ‘Contact Us’ button above.