A Modern Palladian Villa Along the River Severn
Rising elegantly above its picturesque setting on the River Severn, a newly designed Palladian villa celebrates the timeless beauty of classical architecture while thoughtfully accommodating the needs of modern living. Approved in 2022 as an exceptional scheme under the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) paragraph 84e, the project has received the endorsement of the Traditional Architecture Group, an RIBA-accredited panel, for its outstanding design and sensitivity to its surroundings. Construction is set to begin shortly after Easter 2025, with an estimated build time of 18 months.
The villa is elevated on a grand plinth constructed from large vermiculated stone blocks. This basement plinth houses essential modern amenities, including parking for vehicles, allowing the villa above to remain visually unencumbered and fully dedicated to expressing its classical language. The façade, crafted from local red sandstone, reflects the warm tones of its natural environment, with symmetrical sash windows and a central pediment forming its harmonious design. Atop the villa, four statues modelled on mythological river gods crown the roofline, facing the four cardinal directions and symbolising the villa’s deep connection to the River Severn and its landscape.
Inside, the villa combines grandeur with contemporary practicality. A double-height central hall, adorned with a domed ceiling and intricate plasterwork, forms the heart of the home. Flanking this space are a formal drawing room with expansive river views, a state-of-the-art kitchen, and a library with bespoke joinery. Classical detailing, such as herringbone wood floors and ornate cornices, is carefully integrated with modern finishes, ensuring the home feels timeless yet liveable.
The landscaping complements the villa’s architectural elegance. Formal gardens with geometric layouts flow into terraced lawns leading to the riverbank. The vermiculated plinth enhances the villa’s prominence, while a sandstone terrace provides a perfect spot for outdoor entertaining. A discreet riverside boathouse further connects the property to its idyllic setting.
The landscaping complements the villa’s architectural elegance. Formal gardens with geometric layouts flow into terraced lawns leading to the riverbank. The vermiculated plinth enhances the villa’s prominence, while a sandstone terrace provides a perfect spot for outdoor entertaining. A discreet riverside boathouse further connects the property to its idyllic setting.
We are proud to feature and promote in our architecture magazine A Modern Palladian Villa Along the River Severn, a timeless design.
