This architect-designed holiday home offers the perfect English country escape

This chic barn conversion in Somerset features architect-designed interiors, a stunning heated outdoor pool and a steaming outdoor shower with a view.

Designed by London-based architecture studio De Rosee Sa, this secluded, six-bedroom holiday home is the ultimate country escape.

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

Known as Kilnwood, the property sits on the edge of the Mendip Hills, with extensive views overlooking Glastonbury Tor. Kilnwood has been restored from a life of labour into a luxury self-catering family home, combining organic materials with a dark colour palette and polished finishes.

The original tenants of the barn were, of course, the cows and pigs from the main farmhouse. When the owners of the farm exited the dairy business, they split the barn from the main farmhouse and it has swapped hands between a few owners including some very keen gardeners, a couple of potters, and finally the new owners: a Portuguese/Australian couple who couldn't resist a good project.

They brought on architects at De Rosee Sa to ensure that the renovation and new build share the same local vernacular and architectural style as that of other nearby farms and rural buildings, such as the pitched terracotta roofs and black ship-lap timber boarding.

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

At the property's entrance, the architects created a new external entrance porch which also functions as a bootroom, and they relocated the staircase to where the former hallway used to be.

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

Moving its footprint allowed for a double-height hallway, successfully opening up the space and creating a dramatic interior. Now sitting more centrally, the hallway is more spacious, and creates a better flow. Original beams were exposed and local slate was laid underfoot.

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

A deep velvety green was applied to the stairwell with accent furniture in natural wood tones.

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

The home features a tonal palette of earthy hues, echoing the property’s rural surroundings.

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

De Rosee Sa also refurbished the living room and snug, installing bespoke joinery, a natural seagrass carpet and a wood burning stove with a deep showcase window seat with lush valley views. The snug, which is just off the main hallway, is cosy and relaxed but undeniably chic.

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

Meanwhile the modern kitchen has a pitched window, and offers lovely views out over the surrounding countryside.

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

Views from the bathrooms aren't to be snubbed at either.

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

But this home's best feature is arguably the outdoor terrace, with heated swimming pool and a steaming outdoor shower.

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

(Image credit: DERWOOD PAMPHILON)

Kilnwood is just within a few hours drive of central London, and is available as a holiday rental through uniquehomestays.com.

Photography: Alex James