Orchard Lodge: A Beautiful Fusion of Design, Sustainability, and Innovation
Nestled in the heart of Brackley Northamptonshire, Orchard Lodge is a timber frame home that beautifully blends contemporary design with thoughtful sustainability. This split-level, single-storey property was designed by Neil Tanner as a retirement home for himself and his wife Sally, which transformed this derelict plot of land into a stunning modern abode.
Neil, with his years of expertise having run his own Chartered Building Consultancy, meticulously designed every detail of Orchard Lodge, ensuring that the home not only met high aesthetic standards but also prioritised environmental consciousness. One of the standout features of the home is its Brimstone poplar cladding, chosen specifically for its lightness, stability, and sustainability.
"It is light, stable and we really liked the sustainability aspect of the product.
We also liked the ethos of Vastern Timber and Wolf was very passionate about the timber. He couldn't have been more helpful."
A Home that Ages Gracefully
What makes Orchard Lodge even more special is its use of cladding, which is a first for the area. As the cladding weathers over time, it will gradually settle into a soft, silvery tone, creating a beautiful look that will blend seamlessly with the powder-coated aluminium features and grey stone wall capping. This aging process is part of what makes the home feel so dynamic—its appearance will continue to evolve, adding character and charm as it matures.
Thoughtful Design in Every Detail
The design of Orchard Lodge is a true testament to Neil’s architectural eye. The proportions of the windows and doors were designed to work with the profile of the cladding, every element has been considered to create harmony and balance throughout the space. The cladding also compliments the stone detailing on the lower surrounding walls bringing an extralayer of texture and elegance to the exterior.
A New Trend in the Making?
The house sits quietly on a plot tucked away from the town centre, surrounded by an eclectic mix of homes with varying architectural styles. Orchard Lodge stands out, not just for its design, but because it’s the first home in the area to incorporate timber cladding on its exterior. Could this be the beginning of a new trend? We certainly hope so—and we’re excited to see if other homes in the area follow suit, embracing the beauty of British timber and sustainable building practices.
In any case, Orchard Lodge is a stunning example of how architecture can be both innovative and sustainable. It’s a home that’s as thoughtful as it is beautiful, and we’re thrilled to see it making waves in the world of modern design!
Product Specification
Brimstone poplar cladding / VHL4 / 20 x 120mm
