North Down Lane, Shipham
This Shipham contemporary housing development brings forward five new high-quality homes on North Down Lane. Positioned on the edge of the Mendip Hills AONB, the scheme replaces an existing dwelling with a carefully designed residential layout that responds to local character, landscape features and the surrounding rural setting. The development balances modern architectural design with sensitivity to Shipham’s village form and topography.
Site Overview and Context
This development introduces five new homes within a spacious, landscape-led setting on North Down Lane. The site is defined by mature boundary trees, neighbouring properties and the natural slope of the land, all of which shaped the overall layout and architectural response. The existing dwelling held limited architectural value, and its replacement provides an opportunity to improve the visual quality and coherence of the village edge.
Situated on the western edge of the Mendip Hills AONB, the site demands a sensitive approach to massing, views and materials. The varied topography allows the new homes to step naturally with the landscape, reducing their visual impact. Mature vegetation provides structure and screening, guiding building placement and helping maintain privacy and separation from neighbouring homes. Access arrangements follow the established pattern along North Down Lane, with the development positioned to retain the area’s green character and strengthen ecological value.
Shipham Contemporary Housing Development Design
The development adopts a modern rural architectural language defined by clean lines, generous glazing and simple, well-proportioned forms. The design responds closely to the natural fall of the land, allowing the five detached homes to sit comfortably within the undulating landscape. Variations in roofline help reduce overall massing, while large windows maximise natural light and frame outward views.
The site layout positions the homes across generous plots, each oriented to capture daylight and maintain privacy. A shared access route leads into the development, and parking and garages are arranged discreetly to preserve an uncluttered, landscape-first character. Planting between plots reinforces privacy, supports ecology and helps stitch the development into its wooded surroundings.
Materials draw inspiration from contemporary rural architecture, combining timber cladding, muted metal finishes, natural stone and brick-toned elements. Simple, high-quality windows and restrained detailing provide a modern identity that remains rooted in the colours and textures typical of Shipham and the wider Mendip context.
Sustainability at Shipham Contemporary Housing Development
Sustainability is embedded throughout the development. The homes include high-performance insulation, quality glazing, Air Source Heat Pumps, Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery, LED lighting, water-efficient fixtures and sustainable drainage measures. Low-carbon construction materials and wildlife-friendly landscaping further support long-term environmental performance.
Arboriculture and Ecology
Mature trees form a key component of the site’s character and are retained wherever possible. Enhanced planting, habitat features and ecological improvements strengthen biodiversity and reinforce natural boundaries. Wildlife-focused measures such as bat and bird boxes contribute to environmental benefits across the development.
Looking Ahead
This Shipham contemporary housing development delivers five sensitively designed modern homes that respond to local character, views, landscape and environmental priorities. The scheme replaces an outdated dwelling with a high-quality residential layout that enhances the village edge and contributes to Shipham’s long-term architectural and ecological resilience.
Ready to Start Your Project?
If you are planning a contemporary housing development, replacement dwelling or bespoke new-build home in Somerset or the South West, TEA Architects can help. Get in touch to discuss your project and how we can support you from feasibility through to planning.
Thanks to the team involved in this project:
