Bowland Rise

The development is the mastermind of Jones Homes, in collaboration with wienerberger and Pears Roofing who worked together to achieve a cohesive aesthetic that respects the local vernacular while incorporating innovative building materials.

Bowland Rise is a carefully curated collection of 27 homes, comprising 16 four and five-bedroom houses for private sale and 11 two and three-bedroom affordable homes. The development, situated off Abbeystead Road, is designed to complement the character of the historic village while offering modern amenities and sustainable living solutions.

The primary challenge faced by the architects was to create a development that seamlessly integrated with the existing architectural fabric of Dolphinholme. This required a delicate balance between traditional aesthetics and contemporary functionality. The design team opted for a variety of house types, each meticulously planned to offer flexible layouts that cater to the needs of modern families.

A crucial element in achieving the desired aesthetic was the selection of appropriate roofing materials. The architects sought a solution that would emulate the appearance of traditional slate—a common feature in the local architecture—while offering improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This led to the specification of Wienerberger's Rivius Antique Slate crossover clay roof tiles.

The Rivius Antique Slate tiles offer several advantages. They closely mimic the texture and colour variations of natural slate, ensuring visual coherence with the local architectural vernacular. The clay tiles offer longevity comparable to natural slate, ensuring the development's aesthetic integrity is maintained over time. Moreover, they provide a more economical solution compared to natural slate, without compromising on appearance or performance. The use of clay, a natural and abundant material, aligns with the project's commitment to environmental responsibility.

The tiles were supplied from wienerberger’s Broomfleet factory to distributor North West Roofing Supplies, which subsequently delivered to site in plot lots, in line with the build schedule. This ensured that roof tiles and fittings could be safely stored in the merchant yard until needed on site.

The Latchford show home, a five-bedroom detached property, serves as a prime example of the development's architectural philosophy. Its design features an open-plan kitchen, dining, and family room, reflecting contemporary living preferences. A separate lounge with a feature bay window balances modern open spaces with traditional elements, while flexible layouts are adaptable to evolving family needs.

Steve Speight, Divisional Commercial Director at homebuilder Jones Homes Ltd, commented: "Our aim was to create homes that not only complement the local architectural character but also provide the flexibility and comfort demanded by modern families. The Latchford show home exemplifies this balance, offering spacious, light-filled interiors within a structure that respects its historical context."

Bowland Rise goes beyond aesthetic considerations alone, incorporating elements that contribute to the broader community and environmental sustainability. The development includes public open spaces, such as a landscaped pond area, enhancing biodiversity and providing communal areas for residents. Jones Homes has made financial contributions totalling over £180,000 towards local services and facilities, including £89,397 for open space and play provision. The integration of B4RN broadband ensures high-speed connectivity in this rural setting, further enhancing the appeal of the development to modern homebuyers.

The Bowland Rise development demonstrates how thoughtful architectural design, coupled with innovative material choices, can create a residential space that honours its surroundings while meeting contemporary needs. The use of wienerberger's Rivius Antique Slate tiles exemplifies how modern building materials can bridge the gap between traditional aesthetics and modern performance requirements.

This project serves as a valuable example for architects and developers seeking to create contextually sensitive developments in rural or historically significant areas. It highlights the importance of material selection, spatial planning, and community integration in creating successful, sustainable residential environments. By carefully balancing respect for local heritage with the demands of modern living, Bowland Rise sets a standard for future developments in similar settings, showcasing how innovation in building materials and thoughtful design can come together to create homes that are both timeless and forward-looking.