The Lake House: part two

We’ve already looked around this home’s striking kitchen space. And now, James reveals more of the story behind his and partner Sophie’s self-build in one of the UK’s most idyllic settings.

‘Our aim was to create a building that sits quietly in its setting. The concept was based on a two-barn structure with a linking walkway,’ he tells us. 

The larger of the two barns is broken plan and houses the expansive kitchen and living space, along with the other rooms used by the family. The second, smaller barn functions as a guest wing.  

‘The oak frame was made by Border Oak, and we love how a lot of the woodwork is still done by hand, so you get that carefully crafted feeling and rustic character throughout.'

This is a home that sits, quite literally, at the heart of a nature reserve, so environmental considerations were of utmost importance. 

‘My father developed the site from an old gravel pit and it’s now a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for nature, which we work hard to preserve and protect. 

‘It was very important to us all to use materials and fittings that are equally sustainable, natural, beautiful and long lasting. 

‘There’s Cotswold stone quarried less than a mile away, locally sourced FSC certified timber, clay roof tiles from Kent and glazing made in the UK by Origin Global. And, of course, our hardware, switches and sockets are from nearby Corston.’

It was the couple’s kitchen makers, Hush Kitchens, that recommended our designs for the project. 

‘We were originally looking simply for kitchen handles, but ended up choosing Corston for our hinges, hooks and handles throughout.

‘Corston’s products aren’t the cheapest, but nor are they overpriced, and the quality is excellent. As it’s our forever home, we really wanted to invest in products that would last.

‘We fell hard for the Antique Brass finish, which works so well with the natural and painted timber, as well as the muted colour palette. 

‘And we love that there’s hand finishing involved, so you get that artisanal attention to detail and uniqueness that don’t get from machine finishing alone.’

Asked if they can choose a favourite Corston design, James and Sophie agree that the Harper T-bar furniture handle is different to anything they’ve seen before and has elevated everything they’ve used it on. 

‘We also love the 8G dimmer switch in the entrance hall – it’s like a piece of art on the wall!

‘To us, a big part of Corston’s appeal is the consistent finish across the products. It helped us to achieve a cohesive feeling throughout the two barns.’