Time For Reflection Cotswold District, Gloucestershire

Holiday Rental Description

We don't think it's an over-exaggeration to say that this has to be one of the most remarkable homes in our collection. Perched on the banks of Huntsman Lake, you're never short of an exquisite view because the whole exterior is made of glass. Yes, that's right. The unique property was designed by the Dutch architectural firm Mecanoo and is full of luxuries and surprises.

Head up to the roof, for instance, where you'll find a huge terrace complete with a garden and a sweeping panorama of a further three lakes. Closer to the water, there's another decking area where you can relax on one of the loungers and watch the local birdlife.

The only place in the house which isn't treated to sights of the jaw-dropping scenery is down in the basement. Why head down here, you ask? Well, there's a nine-seater cinema, bar area, Jacuzzi, sauna and full-size snooker table. That's why.

Back upstairs, the interior design does its best to demand your attention against fierce opposition and succeeds at times with the bold modern artwork, designer furniture and staircase carved from a 500-year old tree from Slovenia. The kitchen is a thing of beauty too, with both tandoori and pizza ovens, plus a wine fridge — which the concierge will fill up upon request.

In a home that constantly manages to surprise, the fact that it has excellent eco-credentials is another string to its bow. A combination of an air thermal heat pump, solar panels, heat recovery systems and triple-glazed glass means that energy consumption is low, while the wood on the exterior uses the Japanese technique of Shou Sugi Ban for waterproofing, rather than chemicals. Venture outside in the summer and you can hire a boat or go wild swimming in the lake, or book a go on the zip-line and experience the landscape from a thrilling perspective.

Although you might think that it would be hard to beat the immediate surroundings when it comes to looks, the Cotswolds AONB can be reached in ten minutes' drive and has some pretty swoon-worthy views itself. The town of Cirencester only takes twenty minutes to reach in the car, too.

Home truths:
*Use of the swimming pool is included with your stay
*There are lots of stairs in the home, so it might not be suitable for guests with reduced mobility
*Pets are welcome with prior arrangement
*It's possible to accommodate extra guests in the basement and the interconnected living spaces — please discuss with the host during the booking process
*We strongly recommend having a car here — there's private parking available for guests