hugh strange architects dots rural cornwall with farmworker's house

a courtyard house for cornwall

The Farmworker’s House by Hugh Strange Architects, located in Cornwall, England, draws inspiration from the enclosed moorland farmsteads of the West Country. Nestled into the wooded corner of a field, the single-story courtyard house is designed for a farm manager, strategically positioned just a mile from the Atlantic coast. This proximity to the coast called for a design approach that would protect the dwelling from the harsh coastal elements.

To address the challenges posed by the coastal climate, the architects employed an introverted courtyard house typology. The L-shaped plan of the house forms two arms that create a sheltered, south-facing garden. This configuration not only provides protection from the elements but also enhances the sense of enclosure and privacy, making the outdoor space a peaceful retreat.

images © Jason Orton

the farmworker’s house celebrates rural england

Despite its close proximity to a neighboring livestock barn, Hugh Strange Architects’ Farmworker’s House maintains a clear distinction between domestic and agricultural spaces. The design team ensures that the house asserts its presence without disrupting the character of the field. By carefully integrating with the surrounding landscape, the house harmonizes with its agricultural setting while maintaining its own identity.

The protective wings of the house are constructed with thick masonry walls made of monolithic clay blocks. These walls are finished with textured lime render on the exterior, providing durability and weather resistance, while lime plaster is used on the interior to create a warm and breathable environment. The choice of materials not only reflects traditional building methods but also enhances the house’s thermal performance and sustainability.

sited just a mile from the Atlantic coast in Cornwall, the home shields from harsh coastal elements

monolithic architecture by hugh strange

Hugh Strange Architects employ a monolithic base which supports a singular, unifying timber roof that is visible throughout the interiors of the Farmworker’s House. This roof structure is reminiscent of the surrounding older barn structures, further connecting the house to its rural context. The timber roof not only provides a cohesive aesthetic but also contributes to the overall warmth and character of the interior spaces. The Farmworker’s House by Hugh Strange Architects is a thoughtful response to its environment, combining traditional materials and construction techniques with a modern approach to form and function. The result is a house that respects its agricultural surroundings while providing a comfortable and protected living space for its inhabitants.

an L-shaped plan forms a sheltered, south-facing garden, creating an enclosed, private outdoor space