Home Spa at Sussex Listed Farmhouse

Sussex Listed Farmhouse gets new Home Spa

James Wells Architects was commissioned by a private client to embark on an ambitious and carefully considered project at a Sussex listed farmhouse, designing a contemporary pool house, refurbishing the existing pool and introducing a new spa pool. As experienced listed building architects, our practice approached the brief with a clear understanding of the sensitivities involved in working within a historic setting, ensuring that every intervention respected the architectural integrity of the original building.

The brief was to create a comprehensive home pool and spa complex while complementing the charm and character of the Sussex listed farmhouse. This required a balanced design response that could accommodate modern wellness facilities without detracting from the established rural context. The goal was to seamlessly blend modern luxury with historic authenticity, resulting in a wellness suite that harmoniously integrates contemporary amenities with the enduring qualities and heritage of the property.

Pool House Design and Local Materials

The pool house was designed to be a visually pleasing addition that seamlessly blends modern convenience with traditional charm. The structure features a beautifully crafted roof canopy, supported by an elegant oak frame, which provides a stunning aesthetic whilst preventing sun glare and overheating in the gym on the South elevation. This thoughtful design ensures a comfortable year-round environment. For the guest bedroom area, a charming pergola extends from the roof canopy which is particularly delightful with the Summer Jasmine climbing plant. Incorporating locally sourced materials such as green oak for the beams, Fittleworth stone on the perimeter walls of the pool, and clay tiles for the roof, the design team have ensured that the new spa area complements the historical farmhouse, dating back to the 17^th century. This commitment to using local materials enhances the aesthetic appeal and maintains the authenticity of this new addition to the farmhouse complex.

Interior of the Pool House

Inside the pool house, the space is both efficient and luxurious. The interior features a luxury home gym design, kitchenette, toilet, changing room with shower and a bedroom. This completes the comprehensive wellness centre and provides a guest suite. The floor-to-ceiling glass in the workout room provides an exquisite view of the South Downs’ rolling hills, while the South-facing bedroom also benefits from this stunning panorama. The design prioritises comfort and functionality, making it a true sanctuary for relaxation and health.

Pool Renovation and Jacuzzi Addition

Working with Fowler Swimming Pools a meticulous pool refurbishment was undertaken, replacing the stone pavers and mosaic in the pool as well as the addition of a jacuzzi. These renovations ensure that the pool and jacuzzi meet contemporary standards while creating the historical allure of a new landscaped courtyard. Working closely with Fowlers, the JWA scheme came to fruition. The positioning of the new pool house creates a sheltered courtyard around the refurbished pool. This courtyard has been fitted with luxurious white limestone, adding to the allure of the spa complex.

Advanced Heating Solutions

To enhance the functionality of the pool house, we installed a new ground source heat pump. This cutting-edge heating equipment ensures efficient temperature regulation, contributing to the overall sustainability of the project. This pump not only supports the heating of the pool but also the ground floor heating in the pool house; heating throughout this scheme has become much more ecological.

Exquisite Landscaping

The beauty of this Sussex property is further amplified by the exquisite landscape gardening that was designed by Terra Firma. Pleached hornbeams create a structured elegance while wafting purple verbena and lavender infuse the surroundings with the essence of the Mediterranean. The garden design enhances the visual appeal and creates a tranquil environment, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation, enhancing the home spa experience.