26/08/2024
Visit to Turn End in Haddenham (known for its wychert walling) to see a collection of three houses and gardens by architect Peter Aldington. Designed and built in the mid 60s the houses are stunning in their use of block, timber, glass and tile - I’ll post some house images separately. The garden was designed at the same time by the same person (Peter!) this is unusual as general done separately by 2 different professionals, but extremely beneficial as all the elements can be considered as one resulting in a cohesive scheme.
A number of courtyards adjacent to the main houses lead to a garden that unfolds into different spaces with clear routes through each space. The scheme had to incorporate established trees as well as a number of outbuildings, now used as studios - yes I was Kermit green - who wouldn’t want an office there!
I particularly enjoyed the use of materials, tiles and stable blocks, stone cantilevered seating and water adjacent to the building. I even thought the bamboo reflected the large elevated windows! I so enjoyed my afternoon and was lucky enough to speak to Peter and Margaret who were charming and very generous with their time. Wonderful!
