This outstanding single-storey house in the Oxfordshire village of Childrey was designed by David Kirkland, one of Britain’s most admired architects. The four-bedroom property can be found down a quiet lane close to the village centre, positioned discreetly within historic garden walls (listed Grade II). Kirkland’s focus on sustainable design is evident in the construction of the house and the sensitive use of materials throughout.

Accommodation includes an open plan kitchen / dining room that leads to a living room with floor-to-ceiling glazing. There are 4 bedrooms, a bathroom and a shower room and a large utility room. All rooms (apart from the utility room) look out on to the beautiful walled garden which consists largely of lawn and incorporates a vegetable garden and borders. The secluded setting, together with the low-lying timber and glass house (with a roof covered in wild flowers) make for a particularly tranquil setting. A short driveway offers off-street parking.

The build of this light and spacious house is notable for having numerous sustainable features, including the green timber-frame and straw bale construction. The crescent shape of the house allows it to benefit from solar gain throughout the day whilst the planted roof and zinc overhang prevents overheating. All materials throughout the house have been carefully chosen (and largely sourced locally) to create a comfortable, energy efficient and welcoming home.

The architect David Kirkland is now a Director at Kirkland Fraser Moor, one of the country’s foremost architecture practices. Kirkland, who studied in London at the Royal College of Art and in Chicago at the celebrated Illinois Institute of Technology, is a former Associate at Grimshaw. He was one of the principal architects of the Eden Project in Cornwall and is a well known innovator in the field of sustainable design.

Childrey is a historic village that can be found in the Vale of White Horse in Oxfordshire. Surrounded by stunning countryside, it also has a good range of facilities including a pub, village shop and primary school. Just over two miles away is the market town of Wantage which has a Waitrose, numerous independent shops and further facilities including pubs, restaurants and a sports centre. Oxford, Newbury and Swindon are all within easy driving distance. The closest train station is Didcot (approximately 12 miles) which offers services to London Paddington with journey times of just 45 minutes.

Please note that all areas, measurements and distances given in these particulars are approximate and rounded. The text, photographs and floor plans are for general guidance only. The Modern House has not tested any services, appliances or specific fittings — prospective purchasers are advised to inspect the property themselves. All fixtures, fittings and furniture not specifically itemised within these particulars are deemed removable by the vendor.