How to create a sanctuary for your wellbeing

Backwater is a serene waterside dwelling nestled in the Norfolk countryside. Designed with a nod to local heritage and Dutch architecture, Patrick and Lauren's home complements the tranquil beauty of its surroundings – a true paradise home.
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Paradise homes, the Norfolk episode

Dutch Design Meets English Tranquility

A Window to Wildlife and Wonder

After demolishing the original bungalow on the site, rising waters transformed the area into a swamp, complicating Patrick's vision. Despite these hurdles, his determination and architectural ingenuity shone through. Backwater emerged as a stunning home where expansive floor-to-roof windows provide breathtaking views of a lush green waterscape, and calm, private interiors offer sanctuary from the world.

Big house in the middle of forest next to a river

Beyond the Blueprint: The Importance of Location

Discover why Patrick chose this unique location for Backwater – a story of vision, resilience, and a deep connection to Norfolk's natural beauty.
Man explaining the process of designing a house

Inside the Process of Home Design

Patrick discusses his goal to harmonise the shapes and spaces of Backwater with the natural environment.
Man explaining why to choose rooflights

Why We Said Yes to Rooflights

Learn why Patrick and Lauren saw rooflights as essential elements in Backwater's design, bridging the gap between the indoors and outdoors.
Man explaining how the house is highly insulated

The Power of a Highly Insulated Home

Insulating Backwater was a crucial decision for Patrick and Lauren. Discover how their approach enhanced sustainability and indoor comfort.
Big house in the middle of forest next to a river

Sanctuary Spaces: Wellbeing and Mindful Living

Explore the design choices that made Backwater a luxury home, perfect for living peacefully and fully connected to nature.
Woman with long blonde hair and a big smile sitting in a wooden chair and waving to the camera"

ADVICE AND INSPIRATION, FROM A-Z

Get a free VELUX design proposal

Need help planning your home improvement? Talk to our daylight design advisors and see your options with a free VELUX design proposal.

Featured products

Standard roof window
This single roof window is perfect for small rooms, staircases and bathrooms. If you have a larger room, combine multiple single roof windows to spread out the light in the room and benefit from more fresh air.
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Electric products
Invite in fresh air and daylight to create a healthy home that is aired out more often, for a comfortable and energy-efficient indoor climate.

Explore all Paradise Homes

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Man and woman standing in front of their home
How to design with seasonal light in mind

An Foscadh, Northern Ireland

Take a tour around Andrew and Dana's heavenly Irish country retreat and discover the property's intimate connection to nature for yourself

Paradise homes, the Ontario episode
How to capture the beauty of nature in your home

Canada Woodhouse, Ontario

Discover Rob and Jackie's Canadian dream house. This woodland paradise combines traditional cabin charm with modern interior décor.

Paradise homes, the Sicily episode
How to bring natural light into awkward spaces

Cave House, Sicily 

Discover how Mark transformed a historic stone building into a Paradise Home that blends traditional Sicilian charm with modern comforts.

Paradise homes, the Mull episode
How to get more daylight with roof windows

Eagle Rock, Isle of Mull

Roderick and Amanda's panoramic cliff-top Paradise Home is a stunning example of modern country living.

Paradise homes, the France episode
How to build a sustainable home with natural ventilation

Le Costil, Normandy

Inspired by biodiversity conservation, Le Costil is Rodolphe and Yoshimi's sustainable haven – a place where nature can flourish.

Man, woman and dog in next to a pool at their home
How to create elegance with architectural design

Luxury Family Villa, Liguria 

Explore Laurent and Caroline's lavish Mediterranean retreat and learn how they combined open-plan living with intimate, green courtyard gardens.

Paradise homes, the Sweden episode
How to bring the outdoors inside

Goda, Svartsö Island

Step into Emanuel and Majken's Swedish archipelago retreat and discover a modern take on a traditional Scandinavian fishing village.

Family standing next to a pool and in front of their home
How to replace artificial light with natural light

Villa AT, Norway

Learn how Svein and Bente created a sanctuary of light and fresh air on the Norwegian coast using fluid architecture and VELUX roof windows.

Alan Cumming holding dog with man and wife next to him
How to make daylight art with architecture

Time House, Vancouver Island

With a roof made almost entirely of glass, Toni's Time House blurs the boundaries between architecture, art, and nature.

Man and woman standing in front of their home in Denmark
How to create your favourite space with daylight

Strand Hus, Denmark

Tania and Casper's Strand Hus combines function and beauty to create a stunnning example of Danish coastal living.