Private Client

Budget

£300k

A new-build home nestled within woodland forms part of the wider redevelopment of Holme House Farm. The brief is to create a sustainable family home that responds thoughtfully to its unique edge-of-village setting, neighbouring designs, and the broader Cumbrian landscape. The proposal balances the site’s natural constraints with the clients’ lifestyle and creative aspirations to form a home that feels both grounded and uplifting.

At the heart of the design is a commitment to low-impact living- minimising carbon footprint while maximising joy, comfort, and connection to nature. This will be a home for gathering: a place where family and friends come together, where children play, and creativity is encouraged and nurtured. The architecture aims to reflect both the character of the clients and the surrounding land- an expression of both place and personality.

The layout takes advantage of the plot’s width, with two stacked living spaces joined by a dramatic double-height void. This spatial strategy creates a dynamic and sociable core to the home, centred around a generous first-floor balcony. This elevated outdoor space, screened by mature trees, offers seclusion and evening sun- a perfect retreat. By flipping the traditional layout, the scheme embraces the concept of an ‘upside-down’ house, allowing the main living areas to benefit from the best light and views while establishing a strong relationship between inside and out.