AlamyBlackhouse thatched cottage within the Hebrides, Scotland
Many thatched cottages within the Hebrides are easy, single-storey buildings referred to as blackhouses or taigh-dubh (their identify in Gaelic). The time period blackhouse in all probability derives from the truth that these cottages initially had no home windows. This sort of cottage has 3ft-to-6ft (1m-to-2m) stone partitions to assist it stand up to extreme Atlantic storms. Wooden right here is in brief provide and solely used for roof timbers. The buildings’ rooves usually have a turf base lined with thatch. These layers are historically stripped off in June and used as manure to cowl native crops.
Peter Landers ImagesThatched constructing at Abigail Hopkins and Amir Sanei’s house in Suffolk
Architects Hopkins and Sanei designed their modern household house, Housestead, as a set of separate buildings, every serving a person perform. The lounge, housed in a single, has a clean-lined thatched roof and boasts bubblegum-pink metal columns, including a daring, playful contact. The constructing that homes their lounge “captures the spirit of cosy tradition as I see it”, says Hopkins. “I feel cosy tradition resonates so extensively as a result of it speaks to a common want for heat, consolation and togetherness in distinction to the uncertainties of the world at present. Whether or not present in Wales, Scotland or Norway, the place it is referred to as koselig, this custom captures the identical intuition to create protecting but inviting areas that remember easy pleasures.
“In an more and more fast-paced, digital world, this concept of sanctuary and shared expertise feels rooted and enduring. Our residing space is a heat, light-filled place that feels each sheltered and open, permitting you to observe winter rain lash in opposition to the glass whilst you stay cocooned in consolation but immersed in nature.”
Gilbert McCarragherOxfordshire thatched home by Richard Parr Associates
That is one other instance of a up to date remedy of a thatched house. Made utilizing supplies akin to English oak, stone and thatch, it was designed to enhance its rural setting. British thatched roofs typically have very ornate ridges however, on this case, Parr has designed one with sharp, trendy strains. He sees thatching as malleable and versatile, and likens it to hair that may be reduce in any variety of types. “In our buildings we use thatch as a up to date roofing resolution,” he says. “Whereas we would face planning restrictions, we’re utilizing this materials in thrilling ways in which additionally transcend superficial aesthetics. To this point we have now obtained no resistance from planning authorities. There’s a freedom to innovate with the fabric.”
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