Rushden House

This project in Rushden is a guesthouse and home office positioned at the far end of a large rear garden. It was conceived as a quiet working space while also serving as accommodation when needed, and together with the surrounding terrace arrangement provides a functional place usable throughout the year.

The architecture follows a restrained language defined by clear proportions and carefully framed views back toward the main house. Rather than forming a single volume, the building is composed of three articulated wings beneath flat roofs. This separation allows working, resting and service functions to operate independently while shaping sheltered external pockets and transitional thresholds. The resulting sequence of spaces gives the building a measured rhythm and encourages movement through the garden rather than a single static viewpoint.

Large openings are positioned to capture consistent daylight without overheating, reinforcing the sense of a calm retreat. Internally, the plan remains simple and legible, supporting flexible day-to-day use without unnecessary circulation.

Charred timber cladding was selected for the exterior, helping keep the building cooler in summer and warmer in winter while providing durability and a subdued character that sits naturally within the garden setting.