Inside a Carbon-Negative Contemporary Bristol Home Overlooking the Mendip Hills

Designed Around the Landscape

This Bristoll hillside home has been designed to suit its setting, with the ‘hillside’ becoming an important part of the architecture. From the road, William notes, “Most houses sit on the land. This one is built around it.” The design also places a strong focus on sustainability, with the home described as carbon negative and featuring a solar array on the roof. Charred larch cladding wraps the exterior, changing from deep charcoal to warm brown and whiskey tones as the light moves across it.

The Double-Height Entrance

“This double height hallway sets the tone for what’s to come” says William. A two-storey picture window brings the garden and countryside into view, while a sculptural floating staircase rises through the space. Oak-effect and porcelain treads appear to hang against structural glass, with a slim line of light adding to the effect. Above, a glazed gallery and open void connect the three levels of the house.

An Open Space for Living and Entertaining

The main living level centres around an open kitchen, dining and living area designed for both everyday living and entertaining.

Living with the Views

Large folding doors open the main living spaces onto wide terraces, creating a direct connection with the landscape. From the upper terrace, the views stretch across the treetops and towards the Mendip Hills, while frameless glass keeps the outlook open.

A Principal Suite With A View

The principal suite occupies around 500 sq ft and has its own private terrace, underfloor heating and air conditioning. The ensuite takes centre stage with a freestanding bath positioned in front of a large picture window overlooking the trees. A walk-in rain shower, large-format stone, matte black fittings, backlit mirror and walk-in wardrobe complete the space. It is a private haven with the feel of a luxury hotel, but its most memorable feature is the view.

Five Bedroom Suites

The home has five double bedroom suites, each served by its own bathroom or shower room. Several bedrooms open directly onto balconies or terraces, reinforcing the connection between the interior and the garden. One bedroom has been acoustically insulated so it could be converted into a home cinema, while another has direct access to the annex. The spaces are designed to adapt to different stages of family life without losing the calm, considered feel of the house.

Outdoor Living in Every Season

One of the home’s most distinctive spaces is its approximately 800 sq ft covered terrace. Created as an outdoor room, it brings the idea of Mediterranean-style living to the Bristol climate. Warm timber covers the ceiling, lanterns provide lighting and large-format porcelain continues from the main terraces. One side opens fully towards the countryside, while the covered setting provides shelter throughout the year. A dining table seats ten, with a spit roast barbecue and its own WC. “You get all the drama of outdoor living with none of the weather” says William.

Flexible Spaces for Modern Living

The lower level adds another bedroom and a large family room, both opening directly onto the terrace and gardens.

Architecture That Connects Every Room to the Garden

Architect Eric Davis of Erkel Architects describes the project as an opportunity to make something special from a challenging hillside site. His favourite feature is the way the house reveals itself gradually. From the road, “it doesn’t feel like a big house” he explains. “It doesn’t reveal itself until you come through the front door.” From there, the design creates a clear journey through the house, with views, terraces and gardens appearing at every level. “Every room interacts with that garden, and every room has its own space” Davis says.

A Garden That Works Like Another Floor

Outside, the garden has been designed almost as an extension of the internal floor plan. A series of levels create different areas for entertaining, relaxing and family life. A sunken lounge sits within the terrace, with wraparound seating around a central fire. A pergola provides another sheltered gathering space, while hanging chairs offer a quieter place to relax. There is also provision for two outdoor kitchens and infrastructure for a swimming pool. The garden feels like an extension of the home, not just a space to look out onto.

A Modern Home Set into the Bristol Landscape

With its hillside setting, strong architectural identity and unusual approach to indoor-outdoor living, this Bristol residence offers something not often seen in the UK market. It combines the character of a contemporary home with the comfort of a family house, while making the most of its landscape at every level. Every part of the home is designed for modern living, from the spacious interiors and striking entrance to the terraces, gardens and views across the Mendips.

Belle Vista is currently listed with ByDesign Homes with a guide price of £3.75 million.

For further details or to arrange a viewing, click the button below to visit the ByDesign Homes listing.