Sylvan House sits on Fisher's Lane, a sunken, tree-lined lane in the village of Cold Ash, on the wooded ridge above Thatcham and Newbury. The plot lies within the village, in a spot that has already been accepted as a suitable place for a new home.

The plan is for a single self-build family home built to Passive House principles, so it needs very little energy to keep warm. Triple glazing, exceptional insulation, an air source heat pump, solar panels, locally sourced timber and electric vehicle charging are all part of the design. The house is in keeping with its neighbours, with traditional materials, contemporary touches, level access and a generous private garden.

New native hedgerows of hawthorn, blackthorn, field maple and dogwood will line the lane, alongside new oak, ash and hornbeam trees and wildflower areas, so Fisher's Lane keeps its special character. Care has also been taken to protect the nearby River Lambourn.

Cold Ash is a sought-after village with a primary school, shops, church and pub, surrounded by Bucklebury Common and the North Wessex Downs. Thatcham and Newbury are a few minutes away, with fast trains to London Paddington and the M4 and A34 close by.

Plans have been submitted and are currently awaiting a planning decision.

A rare chance to build your own home in a West Berkshire village where new plots seldom come up.