Origins
We are John and Sarah. Our journey began in a very different world… we both worked for the BBC creating children’s TV programmes. It was a fulfilling, albeit busy life – filled with pressure, deadlines, and occasional panic. Our home was a tiny basement flat with little light and noisy neighbours, but that was okay; we were rarely there due to long working hours.
Then, along came Bella, and everything changed. We wanted something more – fresh air, space, and time with our new daughter. So, we started to dream of a different life. A year later, we made the leap, picked up our lives, and moved to Devon. That’s when we stumbled across a magical woodland – and we knew instantly what we had to do.
Protecting the land
Knowing what you want to do and actually making it happen are two very different things. Years of planning, saving, designing, and dreaming followed. We wanted to share this woodland with others, to create a place where people could escape and recharge. But we also knew that whatever we put in here had to be very special.
At the heart of it all, we were determined to tread lightly. Sustainability was non-negotiable. Our mission was clear: to protect this beautiful land and its inhabitants, ensuring it remains vibrant and wild for generations to come. After extensive searching, we realised that nothing we found was worthy enough to be part of this woodland. We needed something new – something that could honour the land while having no lasting impact on it. That’s when John met Kristoffer.
Danish Architecture
kristoffer tejlgaard, a danish architect based in Copenhagen, became our design partner. Among his many skills, he’s a master of crafting handcrafted cabins, and his expertise was the perfect fit for our vision. He immediately understood our need for a design that belonged to the woodland, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Together, we began a journey of designs, discussions, and many trips between Denmark and Devon. Eventually, from one of Kristoffer’s designs, the handcrafted cabin was born – and we named it the Truffle.
The Truffle is no ordinary structure. Every panel of wood is hand-cut, sanded, and stained here in Hatherleigh, before being meticulously pieced together on-site. These handcrafted cabins are semi-permanent, placed on ground screws so they can be removed without leaving a trace when their time is done. The name “Truffle” felt right – they’re rare, coveted, round, and precious, nestled amidst the oak trees of our woodland.
Our woodland home
Some friends thought we were completely mad for taking on such a project. But we were determined. True to form, we made it as difficult as possible by starting construction of the handcrafted cabins during one of the wettest months on record! Despite the challenges, we opened our doors to the first visitors in August 2021, and since then, we’ve loved welcoming people to this very special place.
We’re still learning every day. The woodland has so much to teach us, and we’re constantly surprised by what we discover. We’re also excited for what lies ahead – there are so many plans for this unique woodland home. But one thing remains constant: our commitment to creating a truly handcrafted cabin experience, one that respects nature and offers guests an unforgettable retreat.