Photographing a Cotswold Vernacular Style Farmhouse for Fleming Architects

Nestled in the heart of England's picturesque countryside, the Cotswolds are celebrated for their charming, timeless architecture. One of the most captivating styles in this region is the Cotswold vernacular – a quintessentially English aesthetic characterised by rustic stone, steeply pitched roofs, and symmetrically arranged windows. When approached by Fleming Architects to photograph a new farmhouse in this style I knew it was an opportunity to highlight the architectural elegance that blends history with modern-day luxury.

Fleming Architects

Capturing Cotswold vernacular architecture requires an understanding of its distinct characteristics. Typical features include:

- Locally Sourced Limestone. The golden-hued stone gives these buildings their signature warmth.

- Steeply Pitched Roofs. Usually clad with stone slate, these roofs add dimension and a stately feel.

- Gabled Dormers. These not only offer architectural appeal but also bring natural light into the loft spaces.

- Wooden Detailing. Often, windows and doors are framed in oak or similar woods that enhance the farmhouse’s charm.

To bring these features to life through photography, it’s essential to capture each detail that makes the Cotswold vernacular style unique.

Planning the Photoshoot

For a project like this, preparation is everything. The goal of architectural photography is to not only showcase the structure but also the design philosophy behind it. Fleming Architects’ vision for this farmhouse renovation was to seamlessly blend traditional style with subtle modern updates, creating a cohesive aesthetic that’s both classic and contemporary.

1. Choosing the Right Time of Day

Light is crucial when photographing a building made of Cotswold stone, as it brings out the stone’s natural hues and textures. I scheduled the shoot during golden hour to capture the warm tones of the farmhouse exterior.

2. Highlighting Architectural Details

By using a combination of close-up and wide-angle shots, I emphasised the farmhouse’s most striking features. For example, shots of the gabled dormers and most pleasing aspect elevations highlighted the attention to detail in Fleming Architects’ work.

Fleming Architects

Photographing a Cotswold vernacular style farmhouse for Fleming Architects was a rewarding experience, and the final images captured the essence of this timeless architectural style. For anyone seeking to photograph a similar project, attention to detail, natural lighting, and the strategic use of drone photography are key to bringing out the beauty of Cotswold architecture. By staying true to the original vision while adding our creative perspective, we created a collection of images that showcase the harmony of traditional and modern influences in a quintessential Cotswold farmhouse.

If you’re looking to capture the architectural beauty of your own projects, whether they’re Cotswold-inspired or modern marvels, reach out today to start creating images that tell your architectural story.

Other considerations:

Using Drone Photography for a New Perspective

To showcase the full scope of the property, we incorporated drone photography. Aerial shots revealed the building’s impressive symmetry, the surrounding countryside, and how the structure integrates with its natural landscape.

Showcasing the Interior Design

Interior photography of a farmhouse requires balancing rustic charm with contemporary comforts. Designers similar to Fleming Architects create interiors with an elegant mix of exposed beams, soft lighting, and tasteful furnishings, which we aim to capture in a way that felt inviting and authentic.

1. Natural Light and Window Views

Together we can use natural light to showcase the cosy, inviting atmosphere within. Modern style farmhouse’s often have large, wooden-framed windows allowing soft, even lighting that creates a welcoming ambiance.

2. Details that Tell a Story

Each room offered something unique – from vintage pieces to custom-built cabinetry. Close-up shots of these details provided a sense of a home’s character and the thoughtfulness behind every design choice.