This solid oak framed boathouse was built on a private estate a few miles away from our office in Tur Langton. The lake itself covers approximately 4 acres and has been used for decades to supply the estate with water, fish stocks and ice in the winter.

The oak structure is an insulated and fully contained unit which includes:

• A kitchenette
• Wood burning stove
• Dining area
• “Alfresco” covered eating area
• Eco WC
• Two opening elevations leading to the surrounding decking
• And last but not least, a covered dock for a rowboat.

Originally the house was built to accommodate a dozen or so people whilst shooting on the estate but the project evolved and now it’s function is multi-faceted covering shooting parties, birthday parties, weddings and simply just to enjoy the open space next to the water.

Although the design is very simple, it works well with the environment. Internally we kept the look and feel very simple, with a timber floor and painted “New England” style match boarding that contrasted nicely with the oak. The cedar roof tiles give the structure the complete “woody feel”.

By creating a sympathetic structure we have managed to enhance the area aesthetically but also give friends and family a permanent practical covered area to be able to enjoy the lake and its surroundings.