OVERVIEW: OUTHOUSE is a highly sustainable, environmentally friendly home that was built for two artists within a remote setting of the Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean. Completed in 2015, the house consists of a bespoke, concrete shell purposeful for hanging the artist owner's art. The house over looks idyllic countryside, stretching to the Wye Valley and Severn Estuary. Outhouse is discreetly imbedded into the land to blend-in with its natural surroundings and is concealed to anyone above it. The simplicity of this house creates a sense of serenity for the home owners and allows them to complete their art work with acres of inspiration surrounding them. The concrete gives a luxurious feel to the long stretch of house, accommodating small inside/outside courtyard gardens where the existing house used to reside. These small but spacious courtyards penetrate the house with light, producing a bright and airy atmosphere breaking up the substantial footprint. Each courtyard is purposeful in representing each of the 4 elements; fire, earth, water and air, keeping in tone with the economical building. This sleek concrete house has a unique corridor running down the centre of the house, creating an art gallery where the owners display some of their exceptional pieces of work. This gallery also separates the West and East sides of the house, generating two separate spaces, for work and for living. This groundbreaking project is unique in having minimal impact on the surroundings and scenery but according to the architectural journal its earned its place as "one of the most outstanding new houses in Britain in a decade".
Outhouse was the first private house to feature on the RIBA Stirling Prize shortlist for 15 years and went on to win the RIBA National Award 2016, RIBA South West Award 2016, and the RIBA South West Building of the Year 2016.
Chris Loyn
Principal Architect with Loyn + Co Architects
Chris Milliner and I first met when we were introduced to each other by the clients for the Outhouse project in the Forest of Dean. Chris was their selected builder – they were adamant he was to be the main contractor for the construction of their new 5300ft2 / 490m2 home. I am so glad they chose him.
Working closely with Chris and his team over the next 3 years from December 2012 – January 2015, was a total delight and an example of how genuine collaboration can make extraordinary things happen. He is totally genuine, honest, approachable and trustworthy.
Chris’ skill, care, attention to detail and ability to get things done was wonderful to witness. He ensured everyone involved on that project wanted to work for the same shared goal, to create a truly special house. He has a real management talent, drawing people together – the right people at the right time. He was also never afraid to ask, to listen and to learn and he generated these qualities in others too.
The process of design is a means to an end, not an end in itself. Architecture is only ever as good as the quality of the construction – it is the end product that ultimately matters – the making of the building itself. The project when completed, won numerous prestigious Regional and National awards and accolades.
Chris has since successfully delivered so many excellent buildings working with the architects and other members of the design team, to turn the client’s dream and the drawn vision, into a reality.
In addition, he is a delightful person who manages to combine work and professional friendship.
Learn More
Are you interested in building your own bespoke residential home? We can also offer you high end refurbishment on your current property. Are you an Architect? We can offer you contracting services and commercial build services. To find out more simply click the link below.