Ken Shuttleworth, a founding member of Foster + Partners and the mind behind London’s iconic Gherkin tower, has put his self-designed Wiltshire home on the market. Crescent House nestled in the picturesque village of Compton Bassett, is being offered for £3 million through Knight Frank.
The residence, completed in 2010, is a testament to Shuttleworth’s architectural prowess and his deep connection to the Wiltshire landscape. Sprawling across more than four acres of countryside, the house is a harmonious blend of modern design and ancient inspiration.
Crescent House: A Symphony of Curves and Nature
Crescent House derives its name from the two sweeping curves that define both its structure and the surrounding landscape. The design draws inspiration from Wiltshire’s prehistoric monuments, particularly the nearby Avebury and Stonehenge.
The house’s layout revolves around a pair of crescents. One is formed by a solid concrete wall that backs the bedrooms and private spaces, while the other features a curved glass façade that opens the living areas to the breathtaking views of the meadowland, woodland, and the Marlborough Downs.
A double-height gallery runs through the heart of the house, leading to a spacious garden room where the kitchen, dining, and living areas are bathed in natural light from a continuous curve of glazing. The interiors are characterized by white concrete walls, clerestory windows, and a monumental fireplace, all designed to frame the stunning views.
The Embrace of Nature
Shuttleworth’s vision for Crescent House was to bring the surrounding nature right up to the house. The curve of the building allows it to fully embrace its setting. As he explains, “The curve allows the building to fully embrace its setting.”
To the northwest, a convex wall encloses the private bedroom wing, acting as a shield against westerly winds from the Bristol Channel. Instead of conventional windows, these rooms are lit from above, creating a cocoon-like environment where one can look up and see the stars.
Outdoor Harmony
The grounds of Crescent House are as thoughtfully designed as the house itself. A circular wildflower meadow enclosed by maple trees echoes the ancient forms that inspired the design. The landscape also features a pond, an orchard, and woodland avenues, all woven together to sit lightly within the setting.
Shuttleworth’s Next Chapter: Roundway Park
After nearly two decades as a cherished family home, Shuttleworth is ready to embark on a new architectural adventure. He is staying in Wiltshire to revive Roundway Park, an 18th-century Palladian house near Devizes. Partially demolished in the 1950s, only a wing and stable block remain.
Shuttleworth’s plan is to reinterpret what was once there in a contemporary way. “It’s a much bigger project — we haven’t downsized, put it that way,” he explains. “But it’s an exciting thing to do. I can’t just sit back and retire.”
The architect’s enthusiasm for his next project is palpable. “Our idea is to reinterpret what was once there in a contemporary way,” he says, highlighting the blend of history and modernity that defines his approach.
As Shuttleworth prepares to pass the torch to a new owner, Crescent House stands as a testament to his unique vision and his deep respect for the natural world. The house, with its sweeping curves and harmonious design, is more than just a residence; it is a work of art that embodies the spirit of its creator.
