woodland retreat

The Lodgehouse Kennford Court stands on the site of a disused Southwest Water reservoir. When this derelict partially underground concrete structure came onto the market our client whose gated access was immediately adjacent, purchased the structure to secure the land to provide the site for a modern version of a formal Lodgehouse, reminiscent of many country estates. Our brief was simple, to design a structure which could act as ancillary accommodation to the large dwelling set deep within Haldon Forest overlooking the Exe valley. The setting of the building in an area of special scientific interest and in otherwise unspoilt countryside made it a very sensitive project. Our aim was to provide a building which although announced itself once a visitor had entered the gated drive, was hidden from general view from the road beyond. The building with its natural stone walls and sedum roof tilt back towards the road, it is partially underground much as its predecessor and blends into the trees. However, the single open space provides for a perfect retreat form the main house, or guest overnight accommodation, or maybe an executive study and library. The building was designed using carefully selected glazing and well-designed lighting to avoid the potential of light spill which was an environmental concern of the Local Authority.