Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Devon, UK, the Smurf House is a testament to the remarkable synergy between modern design and its surrounding natural beauty. This renovation project, led by Katie Woods and her family, showcases the seamless integration of outdoor elements with bespoke interior design, highlighted by the innovative placement of Vario by VELUX flat rooflights. Through their vision and attention to detail, the Woods family has created a haven that embraces the charm of its location and offers an inspiring blueprint for design-conscious homeowners and architects alike.
Katie Woods, a passionate content creator, and her husband Chris embarked on a renovation project to transform the Smurf House into a fabulous holiday let. With their four children, Felix, Max, Toby, and Dotty, who all share a love for the outdoors, the family sought to create a space that effortlessly merged the indoors with the enchanting natural surroundings.
Being influenced by bespoke design and the outdoors, Vario by VELUX custom solutions provided Katie with the ability to match the rooflights perfectly to her vision for the interior design of the property. “The bespoke design was key”, said Katie.
They took a chance on a dark, dingy house that they felt had significant potential. A home that used to be small and disconnected now feels twice as big, without an extension, due to the sheer amount of natural daylight that floods the space.
At the heart of the Smurf House transformation lies the innovative use of Vario by VELUX rooflights. Designed to bring the outside inside, the opening Unlimited Rooflight, Round Rooflight and Rectangular Rooflight offer unlimited possibilities for homeowners and architects seeking to infuse their spaces with natural ventilation, light and the captivating beauty of their surroundings. The Woods family masterfully incorporated round rooflights into a key area of the house, the open-plan living room and the roof terrace. These round rooflights, which are walk-on capable and custom-made, let the family experience the unique sensation of walking on air while basking in the natural daylight that floods the space. Thanks to Vario by VELUX anti-slip dots, the family can comfortably walk on and play on these rooflights safely in all weathers – adding extra grip and helping to prevent any trips or slips. These skylights are the showpiece of the house; they connect the inside living area and outdoors beautifully and create a spectacular moment in the evening when they light up at night.
According to Katie, the Smurf House's design concept came to life with the addition of the Vario by VELUX rooflights. Found in the kitchen, living space, roof terrace, and bathroom, these sleek and versatile rooflights provide the perfect finishing touch.
One of the standout features of the Smurf House is the remarkable attention to detail in the placement of the rooflights. Katie and her family took advantage of Vario by VELUX’s helpful “Book a Call” service. We know that a home renovation is a collaborative process where time and planning are key. By simply looking at the initial plans of the space, we could show them the unique products and strategic rooflight placements that would best support Katie’s vision and maximise natural light, optimise views, and create a sense of peace and openness throughout the home.
Integrating the custom-made rooflights not only enhances the aesthetics of the Smurf House but also promotes healthier indoor air quality and the overall happiness and well-being of the Woods family. This is achieved through the opening feature of the Unlimited Rooflight, allowing you to have natural ventilation through the wireless operation. Notice how one half of the unlimited rooflight is fixed, and the other can be opened. This is thanks to our cleverly designed connector system that allows you to combine endless fixed or opening operation modules.
These thoughtfully designed windows allow fresh air to circulate while reducing the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours. Katie highlights that she has always been influenced by the outdoors and sought to connect that with her home, stating that “the feeling couldn’t have been completed without Vario by VELUX”.
The transformation of the Smurf House serves as an inspiration for those who are considering renovation or new building projects. By collaborating with Vario by VELUX, you can reimagine your living space and invite the beauty of nature to permeate your home. Whether seeking a custom-made square or round skylight, VELUX's range of products empowers homeowners to create spaces as unique as their vision.
The Smurf House in Devon is a terrific demonstration of the transformative power of Vario by VELUX rooflights. Katie Woods and her family have created an awe-inspiring space connecting the indoors with the stunning natural surroundings. Through the strategic placement of Vario by VELUX rooflights and freedom of bespoke design, they have brought the outside inside, flooding the home with natural light and embracing the beauty of nature.
Click here to schedule a consultation with one of our trusted daylight specialists. Vario by VELUX is ready to help you discover the transformative effects of natural light through bespoke solutions.
