Machan House
Oxfordshire
PROJECT TYPE: Principal Contractor
ARCHITECTURE: West Waddy Archadia
INTERIOR DESIGN: Last Interior Design
OVERVIEW: A high-quality, low-carbon replacement dwelling, designed to belong to its stunning woodland setting.
This low-carbon, energy-efficient dwelling was built using a timber-framed and panelled structure, engineered for zero cold bridging and reinforced by AeroBarrier, a state-of-the-art air sealing system. As such, it delivers exceptional airtightness and thermal performance. In conjunction, photovoltaic panels and an air source heat pump bring the property to a net carbon-positive status. Discrete but effective automation and control systems, of everything from heating, cooling, ventilation, and in-house entertainment to garden irrigation, are concealed behind the property's elegant contemporary form.
Materials were carefully chosen to reflect the local vernacular and configured for a modern interpretation. Long-format handmade bricks were mortar-matched, with cedar cladding against slim aluminium fenestration, maximising the treehouse effect.
A combination of warm timber tones, textured tiles, and bespoke joinery provide a serene interior canvas. A feature staircase of solid oak treads, cylindrical metal spindles and a handmade curved handrail forms the centrepiece, made visible through internal glazed partitions.
