A New Style of Country Home

We’re responding to a new kind of brief. One from clients who are leaving London or looking for a weekend home. They want contemporary, light-filled spaces where the outdoors infuses with their interiors and architecture. They want to connect to their surroundings in a restorative aesthetic, with well-being the key consideration. They want a sustainably-led design approach.

We’re calling this a new style of Country Home. Although each brief is different (because every client is different) there are some commonalities: innovatively designed new homes both imaginative and functional and luxurious interiors using materials and furniture sourced where possible sustainably, ethically and locally. Above all, space and light which forges thoughtful connections to the gardens, wider landscape and sense of place.

The Hide, a strikingly individual and innovative new home.

The Hide is one of our recently completed designs that captures this ambition.

The Brief

Perched on a steeply sloped site overlooking greenbelt, the client wanted to transform their recently purchased rather disjointed bungalow into a contemporary, industrial-style family home that made full use of the exceptional views.

We worked collaboratively with our clients on a completely new vision.  To take into consideration planning requirements as the property is in an AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) – we needed to stay within the existing footprint and be sensitive to the Grade II listed barn behind the site.

Stunning Views Across the Chiltern Hills 

The Hide is a light-filled, 2 storey upside-down home with floor-to-ceiling glazing on both levels to take advantage of the south-facing views over the Chilterns, creating a connection between house and its surrounding countryside.

The Design

The building tests the boundaries of contemporary eclectic design, showcasing a striking Glulam roof structure and beautiful Corten steel accents.  A selection of reclaimed and unique materials is in keeping with the local vernacular, with Chiltern red brick and black timber cladding a link to the regional style.

The house is designed to create an exciting experience as you walk through it. Moving it slightly away from its slope has enabled an entrance bridge, delivering more light to the lower level of the house, alongside a raised car-port and west-facing upper terrace giving walk-out access to the open countryside.

The Interiors

Our Interior Design team collaborated with our clients to bring a series of modern and industrial-style spaces to life, each drawing on the views of the surrounding valley.

Large windows allow the countryside views to take centre-stage, while exposed brick and industrial style elements establish a strong sense of character throughout the interior spaces.

Reclaimed materials were integrated throughout the design. Timber panelling gives a sense of depth, texture and character, while elegant kitchen cabinetry compliments the exposed roof beams above.

The Build

Collaborating with our clients and the main contractor Barr Build from the very early design stages has led to the realisation of the project to an incredible standard of quality, innovation and attention to detail.  A two-stage tender process meant Barr Build worked side by side with us – architect and builder – leading to a highly constructive sharing of knowledge and experience and bringing the very best from all parties. It also maximised the planning phase, ensuring a carefully streamlined construction schedule.  As a replacement dwelling, it is very close to carbon neutral standards.

Award Recognition

The Hide won Best Replacement Dwelling Design, South East, in BUILD’s Architectural Awards 2020.

See more new Country Homes

River House – A contemporary home with a sustainable future

Riverbank House – Sustainably-led living on the banks of the River Thames

Read how 3D visualisations help hone design thinking and decision-making during the design journey.

What’s next?

We provide holistic Interior Design, Architectural and Landscape Design services throughout London, Surrey, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshireand the Cotswolds.

Get in touch for more information on how we can help you realise your own design aspirations.