Oak House
Dorset
Architects: Theo Green Designs
Engineers: Jon J Oates Ltd
Highlights: Centrally positioned with 360 degree landscaping
This new bespoke house is structured around the substantial oak frame, which was erected first before being enveloped by layers of Sherborne stone, larch cladding, crisp glazed elements, and slate roofs. Throughout the interior, the oak frame remains exposed, celebrating its natural beauty and structural honesty.
While the building's form and material palette draw on traditional rural architecture, the interior offers a distinctly contemporary character. Light-filled, open-plan spaces, vaulted ceilings, and double-height galleries create a sense of openness and volume, allowing the craftsmanship and elegance of the oak frame to be fully appreciated.
The house draws inspiration from its rural setting, adopting a barn-like form with single-storey wings extending to the north and south. Positioned at the centre of the site, it was designed to embrace the surrounding landscape, allowing the lush gardens and countryside to be appreciated from every angle.
Every façade of the house is equally visible and was carefully considered. Thoughtfully positioned windows frame a series of ever-changing views, capturing the beauty of the gardens and the wider landscape beyond.
The enduring oak frame, crafted from natural, low-carbon materials and designed for longevity, reflects a commitment to both sustainability and timeless architecture. More than simply a new house, it is the fulfilment of the homeowners' vision—a home shaped by patience, determination, and a clear ambition to create a place that belongs to its setting and will be enjoyed for generations to come.
