Oat Errish Farm

Situated in the Black Down Hills, Devon, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), this bespoke family home was designed to capture and respond to the spectacular surroundings.

With a tranquil seven acre plot of rolling green hills, the clients wanted to design and build their dream home which would allow them to live as ‘off-grid’ as possible, as well as enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery. Our challenge was to help them realise this ambitious brief, simultaneously meeting the stringent requirements needed to obtain planning permission for a house in the open countryside.

Inspired by the fibonacci spiral, our design emulates the gentle curves of the surroundings and encompasses a range of technologies enabling the building to generate its own energy for heating.

With a striking form, creating a series of dramatic and light filled spaces, the house has an abundance of character and contemporary charm. Local stone has been used, picking up on the neighbouring vernacular and complementing the warm tones of the treated oak and CLT framing.

Curved timber and solar panels adorn the exterior, wrapping the building in an eco-shell which has weathered and contributed to the sustainability credentials of the house. Areas are left exposed to take advantage of the stunning and long-ranging views across the Black Down Hills.