Situated on the outskirts of a village, an existing house was demolished to allow for a new build in order to maximize the relationship between the architecture and surrounding landscapes. Oak was selected to provide a universal and sustainable cladding material. Glazed perforations respond accordingly to each elevation providing a storyline between the interior function and the gardens or fields. A natural swimming pond is included in the wild meadow garden.

Environmental control is supported by a an MVHR system and supplemented by a wood pellet boiler. Solar heating panels housed horizontally to the flat garage roof provide an additional heat source while PV panels are remotely located within the production garden. Solar gain to the glazed areas on the south and west elevations is controlled by external blinds. The range of internal finishes has been limited to allow a shift of focus towards the landscape and the natural texture of the materials. Traditional forms and quality of workmanship are reflected in the details.

The brief for this stunning, modern home in Oxfordshire was for the lighting to blend as seamlessly into the family’s life as it does the interior.

Working alongside the architect and client, we designed a solution for the rural new build property that was as fun as it was functional. Lighting is discreet and practical – luminaires are minimal and integrated into joinery, ensuring it’s the quality of light that takes centre stage. And the fun bit – that was down under. We got to create a colour-changing ceiling in the basement games room.

Moving outside, there’s a large oak tree that takes pride of place in the centre of the driveway – this commanded attention so we brought it to life with soft uplighting. A striking framework of angled, vertical metal blades that we washed with light from below sets off the entrance to the front garden and, as if the exterior couldn’t get any more fabulous, there’s a magnificent pergola that brings family life outdoors. To complement its partial glass roof we used a combination of architectural lighting elements to highlight the space and added a control system giving the family all year round flexibility.