Set within a quiet pocket of countryside just outside Guildford, this new build family home is surrounded by mature woodland, with the river running along the foot of the garden. The architecture responds to both aspects of the site, creating a composed arrival from the entrance drive while opening the principal living spaces towards the landscape and water beyond.

Facing the approach, the house has a more familiar rural character, formed in natural Cotswold stone with a simple pitched roof and carefully proportioned openings. A recessed first floor terrace is carved into the elevation, creating a sheltered place to sit in the sun while framing views across the garden.

Tucked behind this more traditional frontage, the architecture becomes distinctly more contemporary. A timber clad pitched roof volume projects towards the river, extending the main open plan kitchen and living space into a generous covered terrace. Large areas of glazing and deep openings strengthen the connection between inside and out, allowing the house to take full advantage of the changing light, woodland setting and views towards the water.