Church Hill House is a carefully considered self-build replacement dwelling located on one of Broughton’s most established residential lanes. Led by Studio FRI, the project replaces a vacant, underperforming house with a composed family home that raises architectural quality, environmental performance and long-term liveability, while remaining firmly rooted in the character of Durton Lane.
From the outset, planning strategy shaped the design. The proposal was framed as a one-for-one replacement dwelling within an established residential plot, allowing the focus to move beyond principle and onto quality, siting and performance. The new house is repositioned centrally within the site to improve separation distances, privacy and outlook, while subtly enhancing acoustic conditions relative to the nearby motorway corridor.
Full planning approval was secured through a coordinated submission supported by a detailed Design & Access Statement, Noise Impact Assessment and Construction Management Plan, demonstrating that the development would deliver a clear material improvement over the existing condition.
The architecture is deliberately restrained. Traditional proportion and symmetry are combined with contemporary detailing to create a building that feels confident, balanced and permanent rather than ostentatious. A double-height entrance hall establishes a strong central axis, giving clarity and presence to the principal elevation.
Materials were selected for longevity and contextual alignment. Heritage-blend brickwork reinforces continuity with neighbouring bespoke dwellings, while smooth grey roof tiles and black aluminium fenestration introduce precision and modern refinement without visual noise.
The landscape strategy is integral to the architecture. The existing hedgerow along Durton Lane is retained and strengthened, preserving the green, semi-rural character of the frontage. A new, purpose-designed vehicular access replaces the former arrangement, improving highway safety while maintaining visual discretion. Within the plot, permeable surfacing, generous turning space and a detached garage ensure all parking and manoeuvring is contained, allowing the house and landscape to read as a single, composed setting rather than a vehicle-dominated forecourt.
Church Hill House was designed as a high-performance home in every respect. Modern construction methods, improved insulation and high-quality glazing deliver a substantial uplift in energy eficiency and internal comfort when compared to the existing dwelling. Acoustic performance was addressed as a core design parameter rather than a post-planning mitigation. Building siting, façade specification and boundary treatments work together to achieve excellent internal and external amenity standards, despite the site’s proximity to the M55 corridor.
Studio FRI acted as lead architectural and planning consultant, providing strategic direction from feasibility through to planning approval. Our role extended beyond design to include planning strategy, consultant coordination and the preparation of all supporting technical documentation. Church Hill House is representative of Studio FRI’s approach to bespoke residential architecture: calm, considered and planning-led, delivering clarity where sites are complex and confidence where decisions matter.
Whether you’re considering a new home, an extension, or a complex planning proposal, Studio FRI offers clear guidance and measured design insight from the outset. Get in touch to discuss your project and understand the best path forward with confidence.
Studio FRI is a contemporary architectural and planning practice based in Preston, working across Lancashire and the wider North West. We specialise in refined residential architecture and strategic planning, delivering calm, considered design solutions shaped by insight, proportion and purpose.
Cotton Court Business Centre, Preston PR1 3BY
©2026. Studio FRI All Rights Reserved.