This is the project that grew and grew. What started out as a simple refurbishment of a rural cottage in West Sussex, England, became a comprehensive renovation, an addition and a landscaping job. “It was an absolute joy,” says Paul Duffy, the architect responsible for the transformation. “It evolved to become this genuinely amazing project.”
The property sits within the South Downs National Park, on a beautiful plot with long, unspoiled views. “I really enjoy it every time I go,” Duffy says. All the construction and design ideas he suggested had to respect this landscape and were subject to stringent planning constraints. Read on to see how the project evolved while staying in harmony with its special surroundings.
House at a Glance
Who lives here: A family of four
Location: Fernhurst, West Sussex
Size: Four bedrooms and three bathrooms
Architect: Paul Duffy of BetterPAD
The house is what Duffy describes as “a contemporary interpretation of a country cottage.” There are clean lines and modern features, such as the black steel windows, but they are offset against rustic materials, including untreated wood and stone.
“We were using natural materials for a natural setting where possible,” he says. “The property is obviously contemporary and exciting as well, but still very fitting for the country setting.”