Located in the South Downs National Park, a region of unspoilt natural beauty in the county of Hampshire, is the unique structure of Downley House. This visionary interpretation of a not so conventional country house, is the design of the London based award winning practice of Birds Portchmouth Russum.
The client’s brief was for the home to exhibit an element of tranquility together with a facet of playfulness. An existing ruin was incorporated within the entire design and its original form remains as a homage to times gone by and its ability to be part of the present and the future. The entrance the great house, an extravagant structure of timber and stone, is through a circular courtyard and pergola which leads to the barrel shaped entry and the vast arched ceiling of the dining space with spectacular exposed wooden ribs, referencing a gigantic wine barrel and the client’s love of this intoxicating drink.
Two grand staircases lead to the family wing and separate guest wing, illuminated by a glass covered light well. With its turrets and parapets, rooftop walkways and exposed beams and rivets, this design owes a great deal to the classic elements of a traditional country home of the past, in which the occupants can enjoy the wealth of the English countryside from the almost fortress like residence. Downley House is nestled within the softly rolling hills of the landscape and as such, respect is shown for its prestigious position by the sustainable elements of the design, including an energy efficient ground sourced heat pumps and heat recycling system. The design is held as an example of pioneering architecture and as such is rapidly becoming a local landmark and attraction.
