Robert Somerville

Robert J. Somerville grew up in rural Kent during the 1960’s and 70’s. A childhood spent in the woods and hills of the North Downs and then the orchards and marshes of the Little Stour valley inspired his deep love for the natural world. After studying engineering and architecture at Cambridge University, Somerville went on to run a design-and-build business in Devon, utilising local wood, stone, lime and earth.

Upon moving to Hertfordshire with his wife, Lydia, Somerville began working with local woodland owners and foresters to source local elm timber and then build and raise timber frames by hand, with the help of volunteers known as the Barn Club – a social enterprise formed to teach, practice and celebrate skilled rural craftsmanship.

Somerville lives with Lydia and the youngest of his three children in their self-built eco-house in an idyllic smallholding.