Northumberland is one of the most scenic regions in the UK—home to rugged hills, sweeping coastlines, stone villages, and wide open skies. Designing architecture that belongs in this landscape isn’t just about style; it’s about sensitivity, sustainability, and connection to place.
At Crawford Higgins, we take pride in creating buildings that feel rooted in the land around them. In this article, we share how our design process responds to the unique character of Northumberland—and why that matters.
1. Respecting the Local Context
Northumberland’s landscape isn’t uniform—it shifts from moorland to woodland, farmland to coast. Each area has its own visual language, and understanding that is the first step in good design.
We consider:
- Topography and natural contours
- Local building materials and vernacular styles
- Settlement patterns and site history
Whether we’re working on a barn conversion in the Tyne Valley or a new-build home near Alnmouth, the goal is always the same: design that belongs.
2. Framing Views and Capturing Light
The Northumberland landscape offers incredible views—and we design buildings to embrace them. That might mean:
- Positioning glazing to capture sunrises, sunsets, or long valley views
- Using corner windows or picture frames to highlight specific scenes
- Creating sheltered outdoor spaces that link inside and out
Light is especially valuable in a northern climate, and our architecture makes the most of it through smart orientation and window placement.
3. Material Honesty and Local Craftsmanship
Modern buildings in Northumberland can still speak the language of their surroundings—by using local materials and traditional skills in contemporary ways.
We often specify:
- Northumberland stone or reclaimed brick
- Natural slate roofs and zinc detailing
- Timber cladding that weathers to blend with the landscape
Working with skilled local craftspeople ensures quality, sustainability, and visual harmony with the environment.
4. Minimising Environmental Impact
Sensitive design means minimising disruption to the landscape—during and after construction. Our approach includes:
- Positioning buildings to reduce excavation or spoil
- Using permeable surfaces and natural drainage systems
- Specifying low-energy, low-carbon materials
We also integrate biodiversity features such as green roofs, wildlife corridors, or bat boxes—especially near national park boundaries and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).
5. Balancing Tradition with Innovation
Good design in Northumberland doesn’t mean recreating the past. Many of our clients want homes that are modern in layout and performance, but still sit comfortably in a historic or rural setting.
We achieve this through:
- Simple, barn-like forms that echo agricultural heritage
- High-performance windows subtly detailed to suit stone or timber surrounds
- Extensions that contrast yet complement the original structure
This balance creates architecture that’s both progressive and place-sensitive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will planners support modern design in rural Northumberland?
Yes—if it’s done well. Northumberland County Council often supports contemporary architecture that’s sensitive to context and sustainable in form and function.
Q: Can I use local stone in a modern building?
Absolutely. Natural materials can be used in fresh, minimal ways that honour tradition while embracing modern aesthetics.
Q: How do you deal with exposed sites or harsh weather?
We design for durability—using robust materials, careful orientation, and well-detailed junctions to reduce maintenance and improve comfort in exposed conditions.
Final Thoughts
Designing for Northumberland isn’t just about fitting in—it’s about responding. The land, light, and local character all shape how we create spaces that feel timeless, grounded, and uplifting.
At Crawford Higgins, we approach each project with respect for the landscape and the people who live in it. If you’re planning to build or renovate in Northumberland, let’s create something that enhances both your home and its setting.
