FOLDING HOUSE

Folding House is a private, bespoke new build house located in Ringwood completed by award winning Winchester based architects AR Design Studio. Inspired by the site context and defining character, the intention of Folding House was to minimize the impact on the location and surrounding scenery by embedding the house into the hill side.

This site is bordered by mature trees and boasts stunning views of the surrounding landscape, this is combined with a steep 18m slope down to the bank of the River Avon. The design team’s vision called upon the natural topography, echoing an existing ‘zig zagged’ path which climbed the slope. The building imitates this with a folded ribbon of concrete which connects each floor and links the entrance of the site down to the riverfront. Solid timber boxes were inserted between this ribbon creating contrasting private and public spaces. The open plan living spaces maintained a connection to the expansive views, forming large balcony spaces following the path of the ribbon.

The scheme now sits within the hillside as a playful yet site specific response that will mature over time, enhancing the architectural distinctiveness of the area. The concept driven nature of the design creates a truly one-off house, acing to both complement the local area but also fit to the clients requirements as a lifelong home.