DUT18, nestled amidst the serene landscapes of the Cotswolds in the English countryside, stands as a captivating testament to the creative collaboration between renowned architect Carl Turner and the visionary mind of Accept & Proceed founder, David Johnston. What was once a humble Dutch barn has now been reimagined as a striking seven-bedroom holiday home, enveloped within a rewilded haven of wildflower meadows, and designed to cater to an array of wellness retreats, workshops, and family getaways.
The genesis of this transformative project traces back to David’s profound experience at The DO Lectures, an inspiring gathering that sparked a profound desire to curate a space where visionaries and creatives could immerse themselves in the calming embrace of nature, forging pathways to confront society’s most pressing challenges. In sync with his vision, DUT18 serves as an idyllic retreat, not only for David and his family but also as a haven for collective introspection and planning for the team at Accept & Proceed.
Under the deft guidance of Turner Works, the erstwhile shed has metamorphosed into a modern two-storey sanctuary spanning 275 square meters. The ground floor, a versatile open-plan expanse, plays host to an array of activities, while also accommodating a guest bedroom tailored for individuals with restricted mobility. The upper level boasts six additional bedrooms and four bathrooms, harmoniously balanced by a first-floor lounge, offering a haven of privacy and solace.
Exterior aesthetics draw from the sleek appeal of corrugated steel, enveloping DUT18 in a refined black matte finish, fostering a sophisticated and contemporary appeal. Turner’s keen eye for design delicately frames the picturesque countryside views through strategically positioned and generously sized window openings, harnessing the undulating beauty of the surrounding hills. This seamless integration of industrial elements extends to the interiors, allowing for easy adaptability and customization.
Each furniture piece, meticulously crafted from resilient Douglas fir, reflects an inherent versatility, with select pieces equipped with castors for effortless mobility. Complementing the industrial aesthetic, a gray wool curtain gracefully demarcates the ground floor space, facilitating a fluid interplay between different functions. Turner’s extensive portfolio, which includes previous works encompassing residential and workspace projects, laid the foundation for the expert execution of DUT18, complemented by his prior collaboration with David and Laura on their personal residence.
Looking ahead, the architectural vision for DUT18 envisions a series of innovative enhancements, including the incorporation of repurposed components in the form of a dedicated children’s play area and external sleeping pods. Additionally, plans are underway for the integration of a sprawling wildflower meadow and a network of contemplative pathways, aligned with the larger-scale rewilding initiative led by environmentalists Julia Watson and Marie Salembier.
As DUT18 continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of creative synergy, poised to foster a collective vision for a brighter and more sustainable future.
Photos by French + Tye (https://www.frenchandtye.com/).