Explore this woodland haven, an environmentally conscious self-build in the middle of the Welsh countryside. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the woods, this stunning project recently took the spotlight on Grand Designs 2025, showcasing Cladco roofing sheets within the innovative and sustainable design.
The owners, Marcus and Abi, situated sustainability as the centre of the Big Wood Cabin, with their new home challenging the fast-paced city lifestyle by prioritising eco-friendly practices and materials.
Constructed under the One Planet Development policy, the build is designed to minimise environmental impact and demonstrate measurable carbon reduction over the next five years. Now more than ever, every design choice matters when it comes to reflecting that commitment.
Every component of the cabin has been thoughtfully considered to align with this vision. From the recycled concrete bricks that house the structure to the second-hand windows that line the lodge, all avenues have been considered. Even the timber, which clads the exterior has been resourced from the woodland itself - only using trees that are at risk of disease or pose a threat to the house.
One of the build’s understated features is the Cladco corrugated roofing sheets. Chosen for both its exceptional durability and distinctive aesthetic, the sheets are manufactured here in the UK from high-quality galvanised steel. Their robust PVC coating ensures long-term protection against the British weather, with minimal maintenance required after installation.
The anthracite finish provides a sleek contrast to the warm-toned timber cladding as well as the rich greens of the surrounding environment, while the corrugated style provides a traditionally agricultural feel to the build.
Crucially, the sheets contribute to the functionality and sustainability of the home as a whole. The ribbed profile provides structural strength as well as resistance against UV and water damage to help reduce the risk of discolouration and moisture buildup in the structure.
An overhang has been implemented on the perimeter of the building to shield the exterior during the wetter months, helping to prolong the lifespan of the materials. This use of the roofing sheets is a great way to promote water runoff and prevent water from entering through the edges of the system. Overall, this creates a durable design that reinforces sustainable values.
As well as skylights on the main structure of the house, corrugated rooflight sheets have been incorporated into the parts of the design to provide natural light, most notably above the outside bath! This ingenious addition creates a space where someone can experience the outdoors, while remaining protected from rain or debris, blurring the boundary between indoor comfort and outdoor living.
The finished home embodies modern sustainable design by combining function and form with environmental responsibility. Beyond aesthetics, the build inspires reflection on how attainable it is to create sustainable projects. Whether it’s using recycled products in the construction, or incorporating long-lasting and durable products within builds to prolong the life of homes.
To find out more about the project, catch the full episode here.
Last Updated: November 04, 2025
Please note all information is correct at the time of writing. However, we encourage you to do your own research to ensure it remains accurate and relevant to your needs.
