NATASHA BRINSMEAD SAYS

It is a lucky visitor who gets to stay in the Gitcombe Retreat. Despite being almost eight times larger than the old, redundant stable block that once occupied the site, the house has been cleverly designed to appear as a

simple, barn-like structure from the approach. Internally, the spaces just exude character and warmth, thanks to the oak structural frame that makes up the upper storey, whilst the concrete block lower floor, sunk into the ground, now opens out to an expansive terrace

from which to appreciate the Devonshire countryside.

Father and son owners, Peter and Rodney, were adamant that the new house should have no negative impact on its surroundings and that the internal spaces would bring

people together — and this innovative design fully delivers on those goals.