For anyone who has envisioned building their dream home, style and finishes are often at the forefront of their minds. Lisa and David Wallace, who constructed their charming country home from the ground up in 2020, aimed to cultivate a peaceful and distinctive environment centered on family living.

Lisa prioritized incorporating nature into their design, opting for organic materials like raw wood. Expansive wrap-around bifold doors provide stunning views of the idyllic countryside, while a soothing palette of soft greens and neutral tones reflects the colors found in nature.

This serene dwelling, recognized as one of the world's best homes, fosters relaxation and well-being in every area. Join us as we explore the elements that contribute to its calming atmosphere.

Seamless Flow in the Open-Plan Kitchen

kitchen island with white worksurface and white painted upholstered chairs with green cabinets behind and double oven

(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)

The design for this spacious open-plan kitchen features grey-green panelled cabinets that contrast beautifully with the white island and its tulipwood breakfast bar, crafted by David himself. By dividing the area into a workspace, seating zone, and dining bar, the layout encourages fluidity throughout the downstairs area. The wooden chairs, previously used, have been upcycled with a fresh coat of paint and new upholstery.

Bright and Inviting Glass Wall

kitchen wall with full height gable end glass window wall and pale gray green painted wall and ceiling kitchen sink set in white worktop

(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)

The high ceilings are enhanced with a white panel, while the walls reflect the same hue as the kitchen cabinets. The full-height gable glass wall immerses the home in its natural surroundings.

Welcoming Kitchen Seating Area

kitchen open plan with view of white wood edged island with painted wooden chairs and sofa and armchairs pale green cabinets and white tiled floor

(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)

This kitchen flows effortlessly into the entrance hall, with porcelain floor tiles and wall coverings providing a cohesive look. The steps are constructed from wooden sleepers.

Comfortable Kitchen Corner

rattan style sofa and coffee table in room with full height glass windows with woodburning stove behind

(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)

For family room inspiration, consider this cozy setup in one corner of the kitchen. Natural light floods in through the large windows, while a woodburner adds warmth and charm, especially as night falls. The coffee table, faux rattan chairs, and sofa were sourced from Spain, where the couple previously resided.

Functional Utility Room

utility with white cabinets and plants with two dogs asleep in basket on floor

(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)

Utility rooms can serve various purposes, and this one certainly caters to the needs of pets. Utility room ideas showcase sleek white cabinets that extend to the ceiling, providing ample storage for larger appliances, such as vacuum cleaners and ironing boards, along with base units for everyday items. A cheerful rug adds a touch of warmth to the space.

Relaxing Living Room

living room with gray sofa and woodburner in corner neutral walls

(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)

In this secondary living area, living room ideas emphasize calmness with neutral walls and furnishings, complemented by the same floor tiles found throughout the home. Although this room isn't used as frequently as the family seating area in the kitchen, it provides a lovely retreat in the evenings, especially with the cozy woodburning stove.

Inviting Front Entryway

entry way with wooden front door gray green neutral colors and brass pendant lights

(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)

Those seeking hallway ideas can draw inspiration from this entryway. The calming atmosphere established right from the start sets the tone for the rest of this peaceful home. Featuring a sisal rug, stone flooring, and brass pendant lights, the color palette focuses on warm neutrals, with potted plants adding a touch of nature. The color scheme was inspired by the hues of pebbles found on a beach.

Therapeutic Treatment Room

treatment room with treatment couch and wooden walls with neutral colors and big picture window to garden

(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)

As a reiki practitioner, Lisa appreciated the luxury of designing her own on-site treatment room. This space exudes the same tranquility found throughout the house, featuring natural colors and textures. Full-height windows provide views of the garden, enhancing the feeling of bringing the outdoors inside.

Serene Primary Bedroom

double bedroom with pale blue gray walls and high ceiling with picture window rattan lampshade

(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)

In the primary bedroom, bedroom ideas are all about tranquility. The whitewashed wood-paneled vaulted ceiling adds visual interest, while the calming pale blue-gray wall behind the bed evokes serenity.

Stylish Bathroom

bathroom in neutral colors with wooden vanity unit and concrete tiles and shower backsplash

(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)

For those searching for bathroom ideas, this minimalist design is a perfect option for any size bathroom. Concrete-effect tiles create a chic industrial backdrop, while a wooden washstand adds warmth to the overall aesthetic.

Stunning Exterior View

modern house exterior with woodclad and pebble dash walls

(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)

The front façade features York Stone sourced from a local reclamation yard. The door, crafted by David from natural accoya wood, remains untreated. Modern aluminum windows introduce a contemporary touch.

The family is delighted with their new home. 'We love living here,' Lisa shares. 'There are no streetlights, and it's incredibly peaceful. We cherish the calmness and stillness of our surroundings.'