our story

"You’re surrounded by nature. Coming here, it’s almost like a meditative experience."

Back in 2012, Patrick Michell fell in love with the secluded Norfolk site that would eventually become Backwater. An architect by trade, Patrick envisioned a modern structure that would be the perfect lakeside hideaway for his family and friends.

 

award winning design

 

“The whole place fizzes. Even when it's raining, sat under the veranda, it really comes alive.”

After spending childhood summers with his grandfather in the Norfolk countryside, Patrick knew there was something special about the sprawling countryside. Wanting a sun-dappled spot for his family and friends to enjoy, Patrick set to work building Backwater.

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Backwater Site & Ground Plan

 

Backwater Structural Skeleton and Ground Plan

patrick, owner of backwater

“The design itself took inspiration from chalets and boat sheds, with its pitched roof-line and red cedar shingle cladding, but we also wanted to create a veranda looking across the water, and have this outdoor room where we could really enjoy the setting and being outside in the fresh air.”