New Vicarage, Baxton’s Lane, Helmsley

The proposed parsonage has been designed to the guidelines set out by the Church Commissioners.

The proposed dwelling can be broken down into two main elements. Firstly, the main two storey structure, which, accommodates the private living areas for the occupants. The form of this element is a simple linear building with a single ridge down the centre of the building. The materials used are typically found in the area. A coursed rubble stone wall externally under a blue slate roof. The second part of the building is the single storey element that accommodates the main entrance together with the public areas of the dwelling (the study & public WC).

The architecture is more contemporary whilst still using traditional materials. The external walls are now smooth faced Ashlar stone, windows become more ‘punched’ & ‘precise’ in this smooth material. The roof is a ‘butterfly’ or ‘mono pitch’ & covered in Zinc cladding. The siting of this element is important as it is prominent to the public as they approach. It also shields the private areas of the dwelling & maintains the privacy of the occupants. The plan form provides an ‘L’ shape creating a private court & service area to the north/north east whilst providing a private dwelling with principle rooms facing onto a large south facing garden.

Garaging is located within the private court which helps to conceal vehicles & garage doors from prominent views. We consider that the south east elevation is the most prominent as you leave Helmsley heading north. A more traditional elevation with a, symmetry to the fenestration was thought to be most appropriate.