Described by the Commission for the Protection of Rural England (CPRE) as ‘a valuable contribution to the renewal of architecture within the countryside’, this indoor swimming pool and spa within the grounds of a Grade II* listed rectory brought bold, contemporary design sensitively into an historic, rural setting.

Erected on the site of an earlier glasshouse, this modern pavilion is glazed on two sides to allow clear views across the property’s paddocks. A sliding glass screen and a floor flush with the ample wooden deck let indoor blur with outdoor.

A curved aluminium roof floats over the pool on slender pilotis and gently arching glulam beams, its barrel form offering a feeling of height inside while reducing the apparent height of the building from the outside.

Inside, the pool and a dividing wall are lined with Kirkstone slate. A steam room and changing areas are housed in sweet chestnut timber, and there’s a bar for mixing a poolside cocktail.