The story: Tucked into one of the most charming gardens we’ve worked in so far, this project required a sensitive, site-specific approach. The client’s vision was to replace an ageing timber shed with a purpose-built music studio that would function as both a creative retreat and a gathering space for fellow musicians, without disrupting the visual harmony of the garden. The site featured dramatic elevation changes between different levels with carefully designed landscaping. Access posed a bit of a challenge, with a narrow path around the main house and three stone stairways leading to the proposed site. From the outset, the client was deeply involved in the design process, ensuring that every aspect, from layout to material selection, would reflect not just practical requirements, but the unique character of the garden itself.

Interior: Beneath the studio’s calm, minimalist interior lie carefully considered acoustic solutions. The walls were constructed with dense mineral wool and acoustic plasterboard, paired with high-performance acoustic glazing to support sound isolation. This ensures the space remains quiet to allow for late-night recording or practice sessions. The finishes are deliberately understated to allow the studio’s function to shine. Crisp white walls and ceilings create a bright, neutral canvas, while deep chestnut-toned flooring adds comfort and visual warmth. Smart, dimmable recessed ceiling lights were installed to support both focused work and ambient evening sessions. Black fittings – electrical sockets, switches, and trims – were chosen to complement the studio equipment and tie in with the window and door frames. Heavy acoustic curtains provide further sound dampening and allow the client to tailor the interior environment to their creative needs.

Exterior: This is a garden studio designed to blend in rather than stand out. The most visually striking element is the use of mirrored cladding on the elevation facing the main house. This reflective surface allows the structure to recede into its surroundings, bouncing back images of the trees and garden beyond. The front-facing elevation features dark Oak composite cladding that echoes the natural tones of nearby tree trunks while offering a durable, maintenance-free finish.

A bespoke foundation solution was developed to overcome the site’s tricky terrain without compromising the landscape. The studio also features large sliding doors and an oversized tilt-and-turn window, positioned to maximise natural light and capture garden views. A large skylight floods the interior with daylight from above, while acoustic performance glazing throughout preserves both serenity and sound isolation. A deep L-shaped roof overhang acts as a light shield, preventing glare and preserving the peaceful atmosphere of the main house, even during late-night studio use.

Finished product: This isn’t just a music studio; it’s a secluded creative sanctuary nestled peacefully among the trees. It offers all the professional functionality of a purpose-built soundproof studio, while maintaining a discreet and beautiful presence in the landscape.

The project balances technical performance with thoughtful architecture: high-spec acoustic treatments ensure peace and quiet for the neighbours, while the client enjoys a serene, inspiring space designed entirely around their musical practice. It’s a structure that listens – to its environment, its user, and the rhythms of the garden around it.