The Rectory
Modern House Exterior, Oxfordshire
It is a novel variation on the AJA theme of extruded sections, which is one of the threads that has run through our work ever since the practice began in 1996. The quasi-elliptical roof section allows for the maximum possible volume of space in the roof and externally capitalises on the ability of the common clay roof tile to encase curvaceous forms with rhythmic grace, and in this case with orange zest too.
The cruciform plan creates four external areas in each elbow for welcome shelter from the bracing wind in the exposed location. One of the four internal wings is left open as a spectacular double height space which faces westward through huge glazed openings towards the expansive pastoral panorama. This combined living room and stair hall is the lofty heart of the home, with a minstrels’ gallery and filigree timber screen dividing off the dining area.
The formal parti of the house is the balance between the voluptuous quality of the elliptical section and the discipline of no projection or variation from that extruded section. And then there’s the spectacular interior too.