Eight of the UK’s cosiest thatched cottages

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Blackhouse thatched hut in the Hebrides, Scotland

Many thatched huts in the Hebrides are simple one-storey buildings called black houses. Or so-so (Their name is Gaelic). The term black house probably derives from the fact that these cottages originally had no windows. This type of cottage has stone walls from 1 meter to 2 meters (3 feet to 6 feet) to withstand heavy Atlantic storms. Wood is scarce here and is only used as roofing material. The roof of the building usually has a grass base covered with thatch. These layers are traditionally stripped in June and used as fertilizer to cover local crops.

Peter Landers photo

Thatched house of Abigail Hopkins and Amir Sanei in Suffolk

Architects Hopkins and Sanei designed the Housestead, a contemporary family home, as a series of independent structures, each serving a separate function. The living room is unified and features a clean thatched roof and bubblegum pink steel columns, adding a bold, playful touch. The building that houses their living room “captures the spirit of the welcoming culture, as I see it,” Hopkins says. “I think the reason why cozy culture resonates so widely is because it speaks to a universal need for warmth, comfort and togetherness, in contrast to the uncertainty of today’s world. Whether it’s found in Wales, Scotland or Norway, that’s what it’s called.” koseligthis tradition captures the same instinct of creating a protective yet inviting space that celebrates simple joys.

“In an increasingly fast-paced digital world, this idea of ​​sanctuary and shared experience feels ingrained and enduring. Our living area is a warm, light-filled place, sheltered and open at the same time, allowing us to watch the winter rain pelt against the glass as we immerse ourselves in nature in a cocoon of comfort.”

gilbert mccarragher

Thatched House in Oxfordshire by Richard Parr Associates

This is another example of a modern arrangement of a thatched house. Built using materials such as English oak, stone and thatch, it is designed to complement the rural setting. British thatched roofs often have highly decorative ridges, but in this case Parr designed a roof with sharp, modern lines. He considers thatch to be malleable and flexible, likening it to hair that can be cut into different styles. “We use thatch as a modern roofing solution in our buildings,” he says. “Although we may face planning constraints, we are using this material in exciting ways that go beyond its superficial aesthetics. So far we have encountered no resistance from planning authorities and we have the freedom to innovate with the material.”

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