Set in around 1.4 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and woodland, this striking modern house lies in a quiet rural setting in the Surrey Hills. It was designed by award-winning architect Mark Hillier and has over 3,560 sq ft of space, carefully apportioned across two light-filled storeys. Copse House occupies a private and secluded plot between Guildford and Dorking, with central London reachable in around 30 minutes from Guildford train station, just 9.5 miles west.

The Architect

Scottish-born, award-winning architect and landscape designer Mark Hillier has worked across the globe on both residential and commercial projects. He has been design lead at several renowened firms, founded London-based practice h2architecture, and works as a tutor at several UK universities. His context-driven approach can be seen in practice at Copse House, which, despite its modern feel, embeds itself into the age-old surrounding landscape.

The Tour

At the end of a private road, the house lies at the foot of a long, gated driveway. Its architectural profile is characterised by Welsh stonework, concrete, and timber cladding, making for a striking first impression. Strategically orientated within the topography of the site, the position enables both excellent privacy and wonderful views from the terraces and balconies at every level.

Internally, the impressive scale and volume unfold immediately. A series of dynamic, free-flowing living spaces, defined by soaring ceiling heights and clean lines of sight, are organised around a central glazed atrium with a resin floor. A highly efficient Poggenpohl kitchen adjoins the dining space, which, in warmer months, opens onto the terrace, providing a seamless fluidity between cooking and eating. Three bedrooms and their bathrooms are also positioned on this level.

A helical concrete staircase connects the ground and first floor levels, where walkways and recesses are paired with expansive walls of glass, merging interior and exterior spaces and inviting the outside into every room. The upper-level houses a beautifully bright secondary living area, opening onto a terrace with far-reaching views across the gardens. A glazed walkway leads to the master bedroom suite, complete with a dressing room, bathroom and private covered balcony, also with expansive views across the grounds.

The aluminium brise soleil brings shade to the glazed elevations, while solar panels at roof level supplement the hot water provision. There is also a MVHR system, ensuring a temperate internal environment throughout the seasons.

Outside Space

Extending to around 1.4 acres, the beautifully landscaped grounds warrant comparable merit to the design of the house itself. Intended to minimise the intervention of the house on its rural setting, the gardens are a rich curation of native trees and undulating lawns, interspersed with grasses and herbaceous borders. The sedum roof further encourages the rich cultivation of local wildlife.