Featherbeds By: ARCO2 Featherbeds is a low-energy, passive house-inspired family home that integrates seamlessly into the landscape, so much so that it has enhanced the natural surroundings. The property includes a separate building housing an indoor swimming pool, yoga room, workshop and garaging. The site was originally occupied by a poorly constructed barn with planning permission for conversion and extension. There was some risk that a full replacement dwelling might not receive support from Cornwall Council or the Parish Council. However, a compelling design concept was put forward, one that prioritised architectural quality, sensitivity to the setting and sustainable design. The brief was to replace the sub-standard building with a sustainable, self-sufficient family home. The design was to make the most of the site, incorporating both single and double-storey elements, using natural materials and offering a contemporary aesthetic. The architecture was to be rooted in local vernacular traditions while also drawing inspiration from Californian, Balinese and Cornish styles – blurring the boundary between inside and out. Featherbeds is thoughtfully embedded in the site, responding to the natural topography with changes in level. The northeast single-storey wing, which accommodates the kitchen and dining areas, appears to float above a new pond … Continue reading Where Passive Design Meets Cornish Calm