The Hurst House is a new build one-off contemporary house located on the edge of the village of Bourne End in Buckinghamshire. The site enjoys un-obscured views across the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

The ground floor is slightly sunken into the ground to reduce the height of the building towards the AONB and comprises the entrance hall, media room, children & guest bedrooms, utility areas and carport. The first floor contains open plan living room, kitchen and dining space, as well as the master bedroom suite, maximising the opportunities of the site and the views west.

A linear balcony is situated along the length of the building allowing the facade to open up and at the southern end of the first floor the full height glazing can be pulled back to create an outdoor living area which is open to both the east and the west allowing the sun to reach it at different times of day. 

The environmental impact of the house was considered from the outset, and the house is close to being CO2 neutral.

The Hurst House was shortlisted for "Best Residential Property in Europe" as part of the International Design and Architecture Awards 2012.

Location: Bourne End, Buckinghamshire

Completion: 2012

Construction: Steel and timber frame

Area: 311 sqm

Architect: JPA in association with Strom Architects 

Structural Engineer: Barton Engineers