# Fortress-Like Country Homes The Downley House by BPR Architects is Impressively Imposing By Meghan Young | Published 2013-11-05 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/downley-house References: [contemporist](http://www.contemporist.com/2013/11/05/downley-house-by-bpr-architects/) & [birdsportchmouthrussum](http://www.birdsportchmouthrussum.com/bpr/projects.html) When people think of [country houses or estates](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/a-place-in-the-country), often one of two things comes to mind and that does not include the Downley House. Whether people conjure up a scene akin to '[Little House](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/little-house-alarm-clock) on the Prairie' or something a lot more decadent as with a country scene from Copolo's 'Marie Antoinette,' the Downley House will still surprise. Dark and imposing at first sight, it looks like it belongs more in a face of a [stony mountain](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/robert-chisholm-architects). Designed by BPR Architects and located in Petersfield, England, the Downley House is nevertheless quite deceiving. The fortress-like exterior masks the bright interior that is flooded with natural light. The white walls, birch woods and lofty ceilings creates an airy atmosphere that is utterly refreshing. Nevertheless, the contemporary look suits the outer walls perfectly. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.3/10 - Popularity: 42% | Activity: 20% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Dark and Imposing Architecture:** Opportunity for architects to create visually striking homes that surprise with their contrasting interiors. - **Contemporary Interiors:** Potential for interior designers to create bright and airy spaces within traditionally dark and imposing structures. - **Contrasting Aesthetics:** Chance for designers to play with the juxtaposition of dark exteriors and bright interiors, creating a unique visual experience. ### Where This Applies - **Architecture and Design:** Architects and designers can explore new approaches to create visually captivating and surprising homes. - **Real Estate:** Real estate developers can find unique selling points by offering modern and contrasting homes in traditionally styled neighborhoods. - **Home Decor and Furnishing:** Home decor brands can tap into the trend by offering products that complement the contrasting aesthetics of dark exteriors and bright interiors. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Blocky Stone Perimeter Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/forte-house.md) - [Contemporary Countryside Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/contemporary-countryside-home.md) - [Stone Plinth-Grounded Modern Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ayn3.md) - [Castle-Inspired Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hollywood-hills-house-1.md) - [Sustainable Country Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/three-oaks-farm.md) - [Column-Framed Farm Houses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bury-gate-farm.md) - [Traditional-Style English Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-pines.md) - [Tranquil Riverside Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chalk-river-house.md) - [Limestone-Wrapped Rural Residences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/field-house.md)