John Holt John Holt

A Striking NPPF Paragraph 84e Dwelling

Nestled in the rural landscape of Northumberland, just west of Newcastle, an innovative dwelling has emerged as a shining example of Paragraph 84e of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). This policy allows for exceptional and innovative homes in the countryside, provided they reflect the highest standards of architecture, enhance their surroundings, and draw inspiration from the local context. This particular home, seamlessly blending cutting-edge design with geological heritage, takes its cues from the Whin Sill, the ancient rock formation that defines much of Northumberland’s dramatic scenery.

Read More
John Holt John Holt

A Fractal-Based Model for Sustainable Building Design

In the realm of architectural innovation and sustainable development, the NPPF Paragraph 84E Scheme emerges as an innovative approach, leveraging the recursive beauty of fractals. This scheme is a groundbreaking framework designed to optimize building design while maintaining structural integrity. By utilizing fractal-based algorithms, the scheme enhances architectural principles, promoting efficiency and sustainability. Additionally, the scheme provides a home that adheres to the Lifetime Homes Standard, ensuring accessibility and adaptability for residents at all stages of life. Furthermore, the design reflects the traditional aesthetic of local farm buildings, blending modern efficiency with historical architectural charm. The scheme also prioritizes the use of local materials found on or near the site, ensuring that constructions integrate seamlessly into the natural landscape of the Devon hillside while minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, the scheme incorporates a biochar sustainable energy system, reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency.

Read More
John Holt John Holt

Inspired by Nature: A Paragraph 55 home

Set within the historic pleasure gardens of a nearby country house, this exceptional new home is a landmark in rural architecture, designed under Paragraph 55 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). Conceived by Kevin Brown Architect (Director of Reid Jubb Brown Partnership and SadlerBrown Architecture and now Collaborative Architecture),  in collaboration with Luca Biselli, the design takes inspiration from the organic form of a fallen branch, seamlessly integrating into its breathtaking surroundings. The scheme was expertly taken onto site by Rural Solutions, ensuring that the design principles were meticulously upheld while remaining sensitive to the site’s natural and historic features.

Read More
John Holt John Holt

A Modern Palladian Villa Along the River Severn

Rising elegantly above its picturesque setting on the River Severn, a newly designed Palladian villa celebrates the timeless beauty of classical architecture while thoughtfully accommodating the needs of modern living. Approved in 2022 as an exceptional scheme under the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) paragraph 84e, the project has received the endorsement of the Traditional Architecture Group, an RIBA-accredited panel, for its outstanding design and sensitivity to its surroundings. Construction is set to begin shortly after Easter 2025, with an estimated build time of 18 months.

Read More
John Holt John Holt

Shaping Spaces Across Diverse Context & Geography

In 2025, collaborative architecture is transforming how we design and inhabit spaces, engaging in projects as varied as leisure housing and bespoke, one-off residences across a broad spectrum of geographical locations. From the remotest island in the South Atlantic to the rugged Scottish borderlands and the dynamic coastlines of West Africa, this approach emphasizes creativity, inclusivity, and sustainability across diverse environments.


Read More
John Holt John Holt

Designing light rail metro stations & transport hubs

The design of light rail metro stations and transport hubs in the UK plays a pivotal role in fostering efficient, sustainable, and user-friendly urban transit systems. With increasing emphasis on integrated mobility solutions, these hubs serve as critical nodes that facilitate seamless connections between different modes of transport, reduce urban congestion, and support greener travel

Read More
John Holt John Holt

Paragraph 84e: Inspired by Sarson Stones

Situated on picturesque farmland near an Iron Age hill fort, this Paragraph 84e home represents a unique synergy between history, nature, and cutting-edge design. Drawing inspiration from the ancient sarson stones of megalithic sites, the design breaks the structure into a series of bold, monolithic forms. These are separated by carefully considered voids, each aligned to celestial phenomena such as the solstices and equinoxes, celebrating the timeless relationship between architecture and the cosmos.

Read More
John Holt John Holt

A unique Paragraph 84 home

Collaborative Architecture have designed an exceptional, innovative and unique Paragraph 84 home with grounds, in a rural setting.

The site and its immediate area are influenced by a diverse range of factors, as the site itself sits in a man-made environment with historical influences and manmade edges. The building reflects this character and is an unapologetic man-made structure with its edges blurred into its setting.

Read More
John Holt John Holt

Fibonacci House

Fibonacci House is a one-of-a-kind, biophilic residence designed for a rock star musician under NPPF Paragraph 84e. This zero-carbon, timber-built home sits atop a rammed earth base sourced from the very site it occupies, overlooking a stunning landscape. Inspired by the Fibonacci sequence and the forms of natural organisms, Fibonacci House combines exceptional design, sustainability, and artistic intent. With its whimsical, folly-like structure, the residence invites harmony between nature and creativity, offering breathtaking views and a true sanctuary for music and contemplation.

Read More
John Holt John Holt

Intro to Collaborative Architecture

The clue is in the name of the practice. We address every project we work on in a truly collaborative manner. That means working closely with the client and a professional team all knowledgeable in their fields.

Read More

Collaborate - /kəˈlabəreɪt/ adjective

produced by or involving two or more parties working together.