An extraordinary concrete villa overlooking the Thames River in Oxfordshire has been listed for £4.95 million ($6.2 million), offering a unique blend of 21st-century architecture and sustainable design. The remarkable property, designed by Sarah Griffiths and Amin Taha of London-based practice Williams Griffiths, sits on a two-acre site with private moorings along its expansive Thames frontage.
The architectural masterpiece has garnered significant recognition since its completion. In 2018, just two years after construction, the villa won both a RIBA Project of the Year award and received a House of the Year recognition from Grand Designs. The property's striking design has also caught Hollywood's attention, featuring in Bong Joon Ho's upcoming film "Mickey 17" earlier this year.
The villa represents a bold reimagining of country living for the modern era. The owners commissioned the architects to replace a deteriorating 1950s bungalow on the site, drawing inspiration from Culham Court, an elegant 18th-century house located downriver. The design team chose reinforced concrete as the primary material, citing its architectural integrity, exceptional durability, longevity, and high thermal mass properties.
The building's stark concrete facade is artfully broken up by Corten steel fretwork and extensive glazing. A sophisticated brise soleil system at the rear of the house demonstrates the architects' commitment to environmental responsiveness – it effectively blocks excessive heat during summer months while maximizing beneficial solar gain throughout winter. The sustainability focus extends to the roof, where 44 solar panels are strategically positioned across the flat surface.
The villa's interior layout prioritizes open-plan living on the ground floor. The main level houses the bulk of the living spaces, including expansive open-plan living and dining rooms, a modern kitchen, and the principal bedroom suite. Four additional en-suite bedrooms are located on the upper floor, providing ample accommodation for family and guests.
The property's entrance makes a dramatic first impression through a Corten steel-clad gatehouse at the main entrance. This auxiliary structure contains versatile spaces including a studio, office, and garage, with a one-bedroom guest apartment situated above. A large reflecting pool creates a striking visual connection between the gatehouse and the main residence, adding to the property's contemporary aesthetic.
The grounds surrounding the villa are equally impressive, featuring mature private gardens that showcase thoughtful landscape design. Manicured lawns extend down to the river's edge, enclosed by carefully maintained box and yew hedging. The mature tree plantings include a diverse selection of beech, willow, pine, yew, hazel, cedar, and walnut trees, creating a natural buffer that provides both privacy and seasonal beauty.
Knight Frank, the prestigious real estate firm handling the sale, has listed this architectural gem for £4,950,000. The property represents a rare opportunity to own an award-winning example of contemporary British architecture in one of England's most desirable riverside locations.
