Paragraph 84: A Short Guide
in Paragraph 84 Homes
Though it may seem to conflict with countryside preservation, Paragraph 84 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) permits the creation of truly exceptional homes in rural areas, encouraging innovation and high-quality design.
This policy recognises that outstanding, sustainable homes can enhance both their environment and local communities. These homes must be low-impact, cutting-edge in design and technology, and reflect architectural excellence while blending with the landscape and heritage.
Gaining planning permission for a Paragraph 84 home requires meeting strict standards in design, innovation, and environmental sensitivity.
What is Paragraph 84?
Paragraph 84 (formerly 80, 79 and 55) allows development in the countryside in limited cases. Clause (e) permits a home only if its design is:
- Outstanding and reflective of the highest architectural standards
- Enhancing its setting and sensitive to local character
Isolation
Paragraph 84 applies only to homes that are truly isolated. Key considerations include:
- Location outside settlement boundaries
- Distance from local services and transport
- Physical and visual separation from other developments
Every site must be thoroughly assessed before moving forward.
Outstanding Design
Proposals must show architectural distinction, environmental responsibility, and deep contextual awareness. Peer reviews by respected experts help validate design quality.
Environmental Sensitivity & Sense of Place
Homes must respect their setting, support sustainability, and feel like a natural part of the landscape.
Project Spotlight: Paragraph 84 Home – Frilsham
With roots in Hampshire, OB Architecture has over a decade of experience designing rural homes that reflect their setting. Understanding the land’s history and character shapes every design, influencing form, materials, and construction techniques.
Contextual Integration
A successful Paragraph 84 design must respond to the site’s unique context—topography, geology, natural features, and local traditions—using these elements to inspire thoughtful, contemporary architecture.
The Importance of Collaboration
Paragraph 84 homes demand a skilled, multidisciplinary team. Collaboration is essential to meet the policy’s high design bar and guide the client and planners through the process.
Key benefits of a collaborative team:
- Expertise Integration – Diverse skills ensure well-rounded solutions
- Holistic Design – Unified architecture, engineering, and sustainability
- Innovation – Sharing ideas sparks creative breakthroughs
- Effective Problem-Solving – Diverse perspectives address complex rural challenges
- Consensus Building – Aligns client goals with planning requirements
Developments in Progress: Near Romsey
OB Architecture is currently working on a Paragraph 84 development in the open countryside. The design includes hempcrete and glulam structures for a low-carbon, net-zero home with flexible interiors and passive environmental strategies. The scheme aims to restore a derelict car park to a natural rural setting.
Sustainability at the Core
Environmental sustainability must be embedded from the outset. This includes passive solar design, natural ventilation, thermal performance, and renewable energy systems like heat pumps and rainwater harvesting.
Net-Zero Home: Abbey Court, Hamble-Le-Rice
This completed family home showcases the principles of Paragraph 84. Its passive design features—cross-ventilation, solar shading, airtight construction, and high insulation—minimise energy use and reinforce its contextual architectural integrity.
Conclusion
Creating exceptional Paragraph 84 homes relies on collaboration. Bringing together architects, engineers, planners, and specialists ensures innovation, sustainability, and architectural excellence. These homes enrich rural communities, reflect their environment, and stand as testaments to the power of visionary, united design.
About OB Architecture:
OB Architecture is an award-winning architectural firm delivering aspirational homes on coastlines and mountains, in cities and in the countryside. Established by Founder Olly Bray in 2010, OB Architecture is a friendly and open practice of experienced architects, designers and technicians. The team works between three architectural studios in London, Winchester and Chamonix delivering projects locally and internationally.
‘Our buildings deliver value. We design for people, and we’re passionate about delivering tangible value through considered and innovative design.’
