Following the landscape: Bird’s Pasture Farm

At Bird's Pasture, a carefully considered extension and roof terrace transformed a farmhouse that had lost connection to the land, reuniting house and garden.

The Challenge

Our client's starting point was the garden not the house. A landscape architect was appointed and developed an ambitious scheme: A natural swimming pool, specimen trees, terraced seating and barbecue areas all formed a rich and layered vision for the site.

But as plans took shape, it became clear there was a crucial piece missing. Despite grand aspirations for the grounds, the house itself remained disconnected. The landscape architect recommended PiP to make the building worthy of its exceptional new setting.

The Design

The building didn't need reinventing. It needed opening up. We proposed modest extensions and carefully planned glazing to create the flow, views and indoor–outdoor connection the house had always lacked.

On the ground floor, we maximised glazing and stripped back cladding. What remained was finished in natural tones - powder‑coated steelwork in soft greens that sit within the planting rather than competing with it. A south–southwest brise soleil controls solar gain, ensuring the generous glazing enhances comfort rather than compromising it.

A flat roof on the extension created opportunity for a new roof terrace. Directly accessed from the principal bedroom, it provides a calm outdoor space for morning coffee and evening air. Complete with deep planting, the garden feels as though it has spilled upward onto the building itself. It also offers a private, elevated lookout with long views over the main garden and countryside beyond.

The Result

With new openings, improved views and outdoor spaces that draw the eye, the house engages naturally with its landscape. What was once out of sight is now woven into daily life.

Bird’s Pasture demonstrates the power of thoughtful, restrained design to transform how a home relates to its context.