Goosegreen Farm
A sensitive new-build development within the grounds of a Grade II listed farmhouse
Bristol, 2026
Matthew Clay Architects were appointed to design three new dwellings within the grounds of Goosegreen Farm, a historic Grade II listed farmhouse in South Gloucestershire. Recommended by the Council's Conservation Team, we worked closely with heritage, ecology and arboricultural consultants to develop a scheme that responds carefully to the site's historic significance, landscape setting and ecological value.
The proposals replace a collection of modern agricultural buildings with a courtyard-style arrangement of homes inspired by the traditional farmstead character of the site. The new dwellings adopt a simple architectural language, utilising natural stone, timber cladding and clay roof tiles that complement the existing farmhouse and reinforce the agricultural vernacular of the surrounding landscape.
A key objective of the project was to preserve and enhance the setting of the listed building. Through careful consideration of scale, massing and materiality, the development remains subservient to the historic farmhouse whilst creating a distinctive and contemporary place to live. The arrangement of buildings around shared landscaped spaces reflects the historic evolution of the farmyard and creates a strong sense of community and place.
Ecology and biodiversity formed an important part of the design process. Working alongside specialist ecological consultants, the scheme incorporates measures to protect and enhance habitats for bats, birds and other wildlife, alongside sensitive lighting design and extensive native planting. Existing mature trees have been retained and protected, while new landscaping strengthens ecological connectivity across the site and contributes to a richer and more diverse environment.
Internally, each home has been designed to provide generous, light-filled living spaces that exceed Nationally Described Space Standards, with strong visual and physical connections to private gardens and the surrounding landscape. The result is a carefully considered development that balances contemporary living with the conservation of heritage assets, delivering new homes that sit comfortably within their historic setting for generations to come.
Location: Yate
Client: Private developer
Status: Planning approved (2026)
Design Team: Matthew Clay, Danielle Tompkins, Aaron Horwood, Jack Jarrett
