The brief: Following a major life change, our client was moving back in with her parents and needed a home that would still feel distinctly her own. The garden, a carefully maintained space with flowers, mature trees, and a pond, was cherished by the whole family. The building needed to sit lightly in the space, preserve open views from the main house, and avoid taking up more of the garden than necessary. The overall look and feel were equally important, reflecting the client’s personal aesthetic through carefully chosen finishes and colours.

Interior: Every element was chosen to create a bright, serene space. Walls, ceilings, kitchen cabinetry, internal doors, and fittings were all kept white, paired with light oak flooring and simple bathroom tiles to make the home feel open and airy. The neutral palette allows for additional accents that can be easily updated, keeping the space timeless.

Anthracite-framed windows and doors add contrast and frame views of the garden. Underfloor heating runs throughout, with a dual-fuel wood burner positioned in the living space. Generous bi-folding doors open to the decking, and a central skylight brings in natural light, making this a room to enjoy in every season. The kitchen is compact but functional, separated by double pocket doors. In the office area there is also a utility cupboard, concealed behind bespoke sliding doors. The bedroom feels cosy and private, and the bathroom includes a bathtub, vanity unit with storage, heated towel rail, and even a built-in toothbrush charger. 

Exterior: A muted green render was carefully selected to help the building blend into its garden setting, complemented by an anthracite composite front door to match the window frames. To add warmth and texture, vertical redwood cladding was introduced on three elevations, breaking up the façade and adding visual interest. A generous composite deck in light beige extends the living space outdoors, with matching steps leading to the entrance. A roof overhang running around the entire building provides protection from the elements and lends a crisp edge to the design.

The result: The finished home is minimalist yet full of personality, free from visual clutter but rich in detail. The choice of natural materials and careful placement of windows create a strong connection to the surrounding garden, while the generous glazing frames open views of the fields beyond.

Whether enjoying a sunny day with the bi-fold doors fully open or staying cosy indoors by the wood burner on a rainy afternoon, this home feels calm, private, and complete – a retreat designed for comfort, practicality, and a lasting sense of belonging.