Green Hollow, Cheshire

Set within the rolling Cheshire countryside, this 10,000 ft² residence exemplifies contemporary architecture with a strong emphasis on light, space, and connection to nature. The five-bedroom home integrates leisure facilities including an indoor swimming pool, gym, and orangery, all unified by a glazing strategy that delivers uninterrupted views and a refined aesthetic.

The design ambition was to create a home that feels open yet secure, blending luxury with technical precision. Every elevation was carefully considered to ensure glazing elements complement the building's limestone facade and slate roof, while meeting stringent performance requirements for thermal efficiency and durability.

Architectural Vision

Architect Christian Gilham of Leach Rhodes Walker set out to achieve a design that maximised natural light and panoramic views without compromising on structural integrity or energy performance. Slim sightlines were essential to maintain visual continuity and enhance the sense of openness throughout the property.

Equally important was the ability to harmonise the glazing with the architectural language of the home. Dual-colour finishes provided the flexibility to create a crisp, bright interior while maintaining a sophisticated exterior palette that complements the surrounding landscape.

Design & Technical Solutions

Integrated Glazing Strategy

A fully coordinated suite of curtain walling, windows, and doors were specified to deliver a consistent architectural rhythm across the property. This approach ensured uniform sightlines and colour, while meeting performance requirements for thermal efficiency and weather resistance.

The glazing systems were engineered to accommodate complex geometries, including raked-head curtain walling for gabled elevations and curved bays. These bespoke details demonstrate the adaptability of aluminium solutions in achieving both design intent and technical compliance.

Energy Efficiency

Achieving a U-value of 1.5 W/m²K was a critical requirement for this project. High-performance glass combined with precision-engineered frames ensured compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations and supported the homeowner's sustainability objectives.

TECHNAL provided detailed thermal calculations and NBS specifications during the pre-tender stage, enabling accurate design coordination and cost planning. This proactive approach ensured that energy performance was embedded from concept to completion.

Large-Scale Openings

The indoor swimming pool features an 11m-wide sliding door assembly with a flush threshold, creating a seamless transition to the marble terrace. This expansive opening show the balance between structural integrity and effortless operation, delivering a dramatic visual and functional connection between interior and exterior spaces.

Similarly, the orangery incorporates two folding door sets that open fully to the garden terrace, while hinged doors form part of a curved bay beneath the principle suite's balcony. These elements reinforce the home's emphasis on fluidity and openness.

Dual-Colour Finish

All TECHNAL aluminium systems were finished in charcoal grey externally - harmonising with the slate roof and Portuguese limestone - and crisp, white internally for a bright, contemporary interior. This dual-colour approach enhances design flexibility and ensures a cohesive aesthetic throughout the property.

The finish also contributes to long-term durability, with powder-coated surfaces providing resistance to weathering and reducing maintenance requirements for the homeowner.

Precision Installation

Bonam & Berry delivered laser-accurate surveys to integrate glazing with underfloor heating and flush thresholds. This level of precision ensured seamless transitions between spaces and maintained the integrity of the architectural detailing.

Non-leaching silicone was specified to protect the limestone facade, preventing staining and preserving the building's visual quality over time. These installation details highlight the importance of technical expertise in delivering high-end residential projects.

Sustainability Commitment

As part of Hydro, TECHNAL champions circular design and low-carbon innovation. The aluminium windows, doors, and curtain walling available in the UK is made with Hydro CIRCAL® 75R, which contains a minimum of 75% recycled post-consumer scrap. This significantly reduces embodied carbon (by 80% when compared to the European average for primary aluminium production) while maintaining the strength and performance required for demanding architectural applications.

By integrating Hydro CIRCAL® into their high-performance products and supporting the transition to a net-zero built environment, TECHNAL enables architects and developers to achieve sustainability targets without compromising on design or technical excellence.

Collaboration & Delivery

This project is an example of how collaborative working can ensure success. TECHNAL partnered with the architect and fabricator from concept through completion, providing technical support, detailed drawings, and performance calculations to ensure compliance and design fidelity.

Close coordination between all stakeholders ensured that the glazing solutions delivered not only aesthetic harmony, but also long-term performance, durability, and sustainability.