A New Palladian Country Estate
A New Country Estate inspired by the tradition of English Palladianism
Freefolk House harmoniously blends the tradition of English Country Homes with the unique character of the landscape. Set on 50 acres of gently rolling countryside, the estate enjoys unspoiled and serene pastoral views. Our design is meticulously crafted to complement this tranquil and languorous setting, replacing the dilapidated 1960s cottage that occupied the site.
The client emphasized the importance of creating a refined country house that is truly ‘of the landscape.’,' we embraced the challenge of creating a residence that resonates with understated elegance. Drawing inspiration from the English Palladian tradition and the sweeping horizontality of the surrounding low hills, our design emphasizes presence through simplicity, modesty, and grace.
At the core of our approach is a commitment to classicism expressed in a restrained yet sophisticated form. The material palette we selected—featuring mellow hues of dressed Portland stone and tumbled buff-coloured brick—was chosen to harmonize with the natural environment, imbuing the house with a gentle warmth that enhances its connection to the landscape.
Our design for Freefolk House articulates a central portion in the Asiatic Ionic order, flanked by single-storey wings that conclude in pavilions housing a swimming pool and garaging. This thoughtful arrangement reflects our dedication to creating spaces that are not only visually compelling but also deeply connected to their surroundings.
As architects, our goal is to create structures that honour both the client’s vision and the landscape’s integrity. Freefolk House is a prime example of how our expertise in blending classical influences with contemporary sensibilities can produce a timeless retreat that is both of its time and of its place.
At the heart of Freefolk House lies a commitment to classical architecture, which is exemplified through our use of the Asiatic Ionic order in the central portion of the residence. This architectural order, rooted in the ancient traditions of Asia Minor, is renowned for its elegance and refined proportions, making it a fitting choice for a home that seeks to embody both grace and modesty.
The Golden Section, with its ratio of approximately 1:1.618, is evident in the overall proportions of Freefolk House. From the arrangement of the central portion to the flanking wings and pavilions, each element is carefully scaled to reflect this divine proportion. This deliberate use of the Golden Section creates a visual harmony that is both pleasing to the eye and subtly powerful, guiding the viewer’s gaze across the structure with an inherent sense of balance.
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