Sheep have been integral to civilization since the beginning: songs, clothing, and culture itself has been built around the humble flock, providing community, industry, and an astounding amount of wool to humankind over millennia. A space that reflects the surrounding idyllic landscape, and frames the countryside in stunning yet digestible compositions, Delfyd Farm by Rural Office is set in the Gower peninsula in south Wales. Uniquely crafted with and for the place it lives in, the peninsula is named as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty by the UK.
The original house was built in 1895, in traditional Gower stone. A simple rectangular floorplan comprises the main house, with a porch to protect against the weather. Four distinct volumes form two new wings, complete with vertical larch beaded cladding, to add a cohesion to the extensions. Georgian sash windows featured in the main, south-facing facade direct the scale and light within the new build.
Lofty ceilings create an easy, generous feeling to the space – yet with fierce winters, breezy, light interiors still must be kept warm. Keen on providing an environmentally efficient home, thermal performance was a top priority for the Rural Office team. Taking advantage of the extension’s north-south orientation increases solar gain, preventing overheating and promoting summer cooling with the use of vertical louvres and deep reveals. Red tile floors keep temperatures consistent and cleaning simple from any muddy boots or errant sheep that might find their way in.
The east wing is used as a gym, while the neat panelling and warm tile details create cohesion within the rest of the house. The blonde wood with the vertical mullions add a beautiful visual lightness throughout the space, a delineation demonstrating purpose and personality.
UK-based Rural Office have sometimes been described as regionalists, due to their intimate understanding of context within design. Understanding that collaboration is key, they work with those that truly know the places they live and work in, a knowing that can only happen within a long stay, a sharp eye, and a willingness to listen. Having already earned the RSAW Welsh Architecture Award 2025, the RSAW Welsh Architecture Small Project of the Year 2025, Delfyd Farm has also been shortlisted for the AJ Award for Projects Under £500k.
To learn more about Delfyd Farm by Rural Office, visit rural-office.co.uk.
Photography by Building Narratives.
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