The modern farmhouse
This charming home in the heart of Cheshire is packed with bags of character thanks to its elegant design and use of mixed materials
This picturesque home, with its modern rustic finish, is a far cry from the ramshackled collection of old brick buildings that it replaces. The dwelling, set in a secluded spot in the heart of the Cheshire countryside, has been built to perfection with a mix of materials that complement the surroundings beautifully. The owners loved the plot and all that it offered, and knew that self building – rather than attempting any type of renovation – was the best way to achieve an efficient and attractive home that suited both their requirements and lifestyle. With the decision to develop a new house on the site made, selecting the right construction system was the next major choice. They wanted to build something full of character that would suit the vernacular, and that would be as attractive inside as it was outside. “We’ve always loved looking at home interiors magazines and kept seeing Border Oak houses featured,” says the homeowner. “So when this project came up, Border Oak was top of our list. They worked with us throughout the whole process, from planning to completion.” They took out a full build package with the specialist, but decided that they would organise and plan the landscaping and interior fit out themselves. This meant they had time to spend researching and planting the courtyard gardens, both to the front and rear, which are a hugely appealing element of the scheme overall.