A replacement dwelling shaped by its site
Zenith is a contemporary replacement dwelling on a sharply sloping half-acre plot in Battledown, around a mile and a half from Cheltenham town centre. To accommodate approximately 6,000 sq ft without overwhelming its setting, RRA developed a split-level, three-storey design influenced by Californian modernism and the clean geometry of the International Style.
Rather than flattening the plot or imposing a single large block, the house steps with the contours. The lower levels open towards the rear garden and pool, while the street-facing elevation remains lower and more restrained. This helps the substantial accommodation sit comfortably among the existing trees and neighbouring properties while framing long views across Cheltenham.
For clients considering a challenging plot, early site analysis and feasibility work can establish how levels, access, orientation, views and planning constraints will influence the design.
A bridge that does more than make an entrance
From the upper approach, a bridge crosses an external courtyard between the retained hillside and the house. It resolves the change in level while creating a memorable sense of arrival.
The courtyard also brings natural light into the uphill side of the plan, keeps damp earth away from the building and avoids the need for a full tanking system against the slope. Whilst, a challenging piece of site engineering, the bridge forms one of Zenith’s defining architectural features.
Light, views and generous spaces
The crisp white frame of the rear elevation incorporates extensive glazing, bringing daylight deep into the house and opening the principal rooms to views across Cheltenham. A double-height gallery, suspended wood-burning stove and floating staircase with glass balustrades create a strong central focus.
The connected kitchen, dining and sitting areas open directly onto a raised terrace and landscaped garden. A restrained material palette and precise detailing help the substantial open-plan interior feel calm and coherent.
Living across three floors
Zenith provides six bedroom suites, including a principal suite with a dressing room, walk-through wardrobe and generous bathroom. The wider accommodation includes an office, cinema room, gym, utility and larder, together with a triple garage, car port and heated outdoor swimming pool.
An air source heat pump and roof-mounted solar panels contribute to the home’s energy strategy. More information can be found on our Sustainability and Low Energy Design page.
Designing with the contours
Completed in 2015, Zenith demonstrates how a steep site can shape a distinctive contemporary home. Its split levels follow the slope, the courtyard brings light into the uphill side of the plan and the entrance bridge transforms a practical change in level into an architectural moment.
For anyone considering a new build or replacement dwelling in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire or the wider Cotswolds, Zenith shows the value of working with a site’s contours rather than treating them simply as an obstacle.
Project highlights
- Contemporary 6,000 sq ft replacement dwelling in Battledown, Cheltenham
- Split-level, three-storey design shaped around a steep half-acre plot
- Planning permission secured within a sensitive residential setting
- Bridged courtyard entrance resolving the change in level
- Double-height gallery and extensive glazing framing views across Cheltenham
- Six bedroom suites, cinema room, gym and heated outdoor pool
- Triple garage and car port
- Air source heat pump and roof-mounted solar panels