HILLS+CO. specialise in integrated design-led rural architecture and interiors, which respond to the natural context. The practice, based in the picturesque Wye Valley, provides a bespoke design service tailored to you and your home, thriving on developing projects both inside and out which deliver thoughtful and beautiful design, whilst providing a full service from ‘concept to completion. Their distinctive project portfolio and expertise include; energy efficient and Passivhaus new builds, refurbishments and extensions; for listed, period and contemporary properties within the rural environment. With a passion for the natural landscape and rural lifestyle, sustainable practices and principles are embodied within their approach and design process.
HILLS + CO. believe in the art of listening. A close collaborative design relationship is key to the success of their projects, where they start by understanding the client’s personal needs, values and aspirations. Clients are guided step by step through the whole process, including initial cost estimates, planning, contract administration and collaborative decision-making with the view to minimising the disruption to existing life, family and work commitments. Advice is offered whilst engaging professional consultants having established credible working relationships with structural engineers, contractors, landscapers and ecologists.
With a thoughtful ethos and joined-up thinking they work with clients to fully realise their property investment both financially and emotionally. Such a carefully crafted and beautifully finished home can become a future legacy.
"A contemporary creative approach which blends both traditional vernacular and modern influences. Specialising in rural architecture and design, we draw upon natural inspiration and materials, coupled with the history, stories and narratives of a property and its setting, the key to the project is revealed. As such, each project is unique and presents different opportunities which are approached with renewed curiosity. Design as nature intended."
"Brooklea, a contemporary new build 5 bed family home, built to Passivhaus standards, has recently been completed by the practice. Situated in a beautiful AONB this complex sloping site sits alongside two natural brooks. The form developed as a response to the former cottage, the typical stone gables (bookends) in the rural vernacular whilst creating a ‘sundial’ orientation for external terrace use (morning and afternoon). This ambitious sustainable build included raft slab insulation, triple glazed windows, MVHR, airtight construction, off-site timber frame, Air Source Heat Pump, recycled newspaper insulation, exposed concrete slab and greywater recycling. The exterior materiality of the build included zinc, UK cedar and weathered steel. The interiors feature bespoke storage joinery throughout, double height mezzanine (and climbing wall!) with a distinctive wooden display staircase."
