UK Construction Journal - Issue 1 - April 2026 - Flipbook - Page 64
Introducing Leaf House and
The Long Barn
Alex Michaelis, founding partner of Michaelis Boyd, has unveiled Leaf House, his latest architectural
creation designed for his growing family in Gloucestershire.
Inspired by nature, powered by nature
The property comprises a main house and an adjacent long
barn, both carefully integrate into the natural landscape.
Throughout, Michaelis was intent on respecting the local
context by utilising materials that are not only regionally
sourced but that also speak to the area’s architectural heritage.
The concept behind Leaf House draws inspiration from the
simple, organic form of two leaves resting together, forming
an oval shape.
Upon arrival, a dramatic double-height atrium enveloped in
natural clay plaster by Clayworks creates a striking entrance,
with abundant natural daylight streaming through the glazed
ceiling above.
This concept is abstracted through a metal “stem” that rises
from the ground, connecting the two structures, symbolically
anchoring the home to its site.
A bespoke metal and timber staircase ascends toward a
mezzanine level, which serves as a link between the master
suite and two guest rooms. The use of materials and the design
of the space emphasise both tactile warmth and a sense of
openness, while maximising light and flow.
The façade of the two-storey main house is predominantly
glazed, allowing natural light to flood the interior while framing
breathtaking views across the valley. The remaining elements
of the façade are constructed using local stone sourced from
a quarry just 50m from the site.
The bespoke kitchen from Kitchen Architecture was
designed by Colin Artridge to provide an optimal cooking
and entertaining environment, featuring extensive storage
solutions and an oversized central island, ideal for both meal
preparation and hostinggatherings.
This choice of material truly underscores the project’s
commitment to blending seamlessly with the surrounding
environment, ensuring both visual harmony and sustainability.
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