Shropshire

Located in a countryside location outside Stoke, this project involved the creation of a new build house in a secluded setting. The site contained an existing 19th century house which although attractive could not be substantially altered to accommodate the needs of the client. The solution was to create a modern new house beyond the existing property located further into the site so that the existing house would become guest accommodation with the new house approached from a dramatic sweeping driveway while remaining hidden from view. As part of this journey, a linear pond created a ‘moat’ on the edge of the house which is driven over when the house is approached.

This moat continues into the house as an indoor swimming pool, conversely creating a dramatic perspective from the pool back across the landscape. The house itself is nestled deep into the site with spectacular views in all directions. It is designed as four blocks which face towards different aspects of the site visually forming the appearance of a collection of smaller buildings. This allows each of these wings to take advantage of the different views and are connected by a central hallway with a large circular lantern rooflight above. This space also allows glimpses of the landscape beyond meaning that no space in the house is without a view.

A tactile brick and timber spiral staircase links the two levels and central atrium from which the rooms radiate. All the rooms have a sense of seclusion and privacy while also being connected to a common shared communal space which means corridors are kept to a minimum.

Luxurious materials are used throughout – from the long format bricks used on the exterior and large floor to ceiling glazing, to the 300mm wide oak flooring, stone bathrooms, carefully designed custom joinery and curved brick walls internally.

As part of the design the brick walls of each wing of the house continue into the garden, anchoring the building within its location while also separating public and private outside space. Gregory Phillips Architects was responsible for all of the interior fitout of the property, including organising and coordinating the installation of the swimming pool, audio visual system, the lighting, all of the furniture and soft finishes as well as the extensive landscaping including the dramatic lily pond moat.