Designed by Mecanoo

Architect: Mecanoo — Dutch Architecture Firm

The harmony between landscape and interior, architecture and nature, was a key design determinant, particularly regarding sight lines, materials, colours, and lighting.

The house is designed from inside out, creating uninterrupted views to the surrounding nature while providing shelter and intimacy. All these aspects work together to ensure the house's sense of timelessness.

The villa is situated in a green oasis of trees and plants that hide the house from view, creating a private sanctuary that reveals itself only to those who enter.

Sugi Ban: The Art of Fire

The exterior wood used in the Glass House was treated using the ancient Japanese art of Sugi Ban, which involves subtly charring timber to provide a beautiful, long-lasting finish.

As well as providing effective fire resistance, this natural technique is free from chemical preservatives, paints and retardants. An elegant, practical and environmentally friendly solution that honors both tradition and sustainability.

The charred timber creates a striking contrast against the transparent glass walls, embodying the philosophy of transparency meeting natural materiality.

Interior Palette

In order not to detract from the surroundings, the interior design makes use of earthy, light and transparent materials: glass, dark wood, Negro Marquina and Carrara marble slabs, dark metal and bright white walls, ceilings and doors.

The colour of the flooring extends outside the house, cladding the edges of the deck that surrounds the building, as well as the bridge that connects it with the land—creating a seamless flow between interior and exterior spaces.

This careful selection of materials ensures that the architecture remains in perfect harmony with the natural landscape, never competing but always complementing the views beyond.

Lechlade's Hidden Gem

Positioned in the charming market town of Lechlade-on-Thames within the exclusive Lakes by Yoo private development, Glass House by the Lake offers the rare combination of secluded privacy and convenient access to the Cotswolds' finest attractions.

The property sits on the edge of a pristine private lake, where morning mists rise over still waters and evening sunsets paint the sky in shades of gold and rose. Ancient trees frame the horizon, while manicured gardens provide intimate spaces for contemplation.

Within easy reach, you'll discover honey-stone villages, Michelin-starred restaurants, antique markets, and country estates that have captivated visitors for centuries.

Morning Rituals

Wake to sunlight streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows, the lake reflecting golden hues across your bedroom ceiling. Step onto your private terrace with a freshly brewed coffee and watch the morning mist rise over the water.

Prepare a leisurely breakfast in the gourmet kitchen, or simply sink into the plush living room sofa with a book, surrounded by views that inspire and soothe.

Days of Discovery

Explore the Cotswolds' enchanting villages—Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold are minutes away. Visit historical estates, browse artisan galleries, or enjoy a traditional pub lunch in a honey-stone inn.

Return to your sanctuary for an afternoon by the lake. Relax on the terrace with a glass of wine, take a gentle walk along the water's edge, or simply do nothing at all—pure, uninterrupted peace.

Evening Elegance

As twilight descends, Glass House transforms. Underfloor heating creates cozy warmth, statement lighting casts dramatic shadows, and the lake view becomes a mirror reflecting the star-studded sky.

Prepare a memorable dinner in the chef's kitchen, light the feature fireplace, and settle in for an evening of conversation, entertainment, or quiet reflection. This is luxury living at its finest—effortless, elegant, unforgettable.