We were commissioned by the West Somerset Rural Housing Association to design affordable houses for local people on formerly agricultural land in both Timberscombe and Wheddon Cross.

The first scheme at Timberscombe was linked to the building of the village bypass and was planned as nine starter homes grouped around a car-free courtyard, with the gardens around the perimeter behind a tall rubble stone wall.

The six houses at Wheddon Cross form an L-shaped group, somewhat reminiscent of the Arts and Crafts Style. The deep recessed porches and the multi-fuel stove central heating reflect its exposed siting on an open hillside, with magnificent views across towards Dunkery Beacon.

In each case the approach was to fit the houses seamlessly into their village setting. Both schemes have limewashed rendered walls, slate roofs, small pane windows and dormers.