We have been asked to take part in the Peak Advertiser’s “eco-living” feature this month. Here’s a sneak preview of the article which will be published later this week.

When Glenn was asked to build a writers retreat with green credentials he looked to his surroundings for inspiration. He found the answer in Josephine’s tiny flock of sheep.

“Given the Peak’s long history of sheep farming, a shepherd hut made perfect sense both architecturally and aesthetically” explains Glenn. “And with the option to go off-grid with solar power, a wood burning stove and a composting toilet, it also hit the spot environmentally.”

Charmed by the traditional good looks and versatility of the huts, Glenn and Josephine combined their skills in joinery and design and White Peak Shepherd Huts was born.

“Living in such a beautiful place makes us aware of the need to preserve it,” says Josephine, “so we use FSC approved timber and purchase our materials from local businesses to minimise our carbon footprint. The huts are insulated and double glazed which is why they are so cosy and quiet and we use Farrow & Ball’s, eco-friendly, oil free paint.”

“The shepherd hut is enjoying a comeback as people are catching on to how adaptable they are,” says Glenn. “While the basic design is the same as the original huts, the way they are used has changed dramatically. Offices, play rooms, teenage hangouts, tack rooms, art studios, bedrooms and garden escapes are all popular. The huts are bespoke builds so you are only limited by your imagination.”