Loving life in Donaghcloney

They had a major advantage in designing their country home given that they are both architects.

Angus is employed by major architectural firm Todd Architects while Nicola works for Waddington McClure Architects.

Together they have three children and are loving their new life in Donaghcloney.

Nicola, who is originally from Lisburn, told the ‘MAIL’: “We found a piece of land with planning on it already. It was such a wonderful opportunity.

“Because it was a rural site it has taken some of its influence from traditional rural farmstead dwellings.”

The two storey L-shaped house is sourced from local materials where possible. The house is carbon neutral thanks to photovoltaic slates, a woodpellet boiler, rainwater recycling, low energy lighting and a high level of insulation.

Nicola continued: “We love the area. The views are fantastic. The whole house has been designed to face south west to make the most of any sunlight.”

Speaking of Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen’s visit, she said: “We got on great. It was really good fun to see how the production team and television crew work and find out about that process."

She added: “Some of the other houses are fantastic. We’re very pleased to see such a high standard.”