Distinctive leaf-shaped roofs, supported by plant-clad steel stems, are the defining features of an off-grid residence in the Cotswolds, UK, designed by the architecture studio Michaelis Boyd.
Known as the Leaf House, this property is located within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and was conceived by Michaelis Boyd co-founder Alex Michaelis as a home for his own family.
Described by Michaelis as “deeply rooted in its context,” the house’s distinctive leaf form responds both to the surrounding woodland and the desire to create interiors filled with 360-degree views and abundant natural light, with extensive glazing throughout.
The property consists of a main residence with a leaf-shaped footprint and an adjacent annexe known as the Long Barn.
“Leaf House is inspired by the simple, organic form of two leaves resting together to create an oval shape,” co-founder Michaelis told Dezeen.
“The interior layout features organic forms and natural materials, fostering a strong sense of connection with the landscape and a feeling of being embedded within it.”
The house features planted roofs with gently upturned, white-rendered soffits, crowning two storeys clad in locally sourced stone.
To the east, two steel “stems” project from the base of the roofs, which, as Michaelis notes, are intended to “symbolically anchor” the house in its location. Over time, these steel elements will be enveloped by climbing plants.
A double-height entrance corridor, illuminated by skylights, divides the ground floor into two sections: to the east is a spacious living area, while the
