**Couple Inspired by Lord of the Rings Submit Plans for Unique Underground ‘Hobbit House’ on Wales-England Border**
A couple from the Welsh borders have captured the magic of Middle-earth with their ambitious proposal for a one-of-a-kind underground ‘hobbit house’ inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s much-loved Lord of the Rings series. Alan Heeks and his partner, residents near Hay-on-Wye, have drawn up plans for this remarkable property in the grounds surrounding Dulas House, Cusop—nestled close to the Powys and Herefordshire border.
The proposal, formally submitted to Herefordshire Council, outlines the construction of a three-bedroom dwelling—most of which would be tucked away beneath the earth, with only its inviting entrance standing proud. Aptly named ‘Deephallow,’ the design aims to blend seamlessly into the lush landscape, mirroring both the rural traditions of Herefordshire and the fantastical imaginations of Tolkien.
Planning documents reveal that sustainability and sensitivity have been placed at the heart of the project. The aspiring homeowners state: “Mr and Mrs Heeks were inspired by the place and believe that the only appropriate solution is a part-buried dwelling which maintains the local and wider landscape character.” Alongside building their dream home, they also hope to undertake a landscaping scheme that would bring new life and biodiversity to the site’s established orchard.
The proposed structure is anything but ordinary. Architectural drawings show a simple, elegant form utilising exposed oak frames reminiscent of traditional Herefordshire buildings, paired with gently curved interior walls. This thoughtful approach not only keeps with local aesthetic values but also encapsulates a sense of harmonious, organic living—an ethos so central to Tolkien’s vision of hobbit life.
Energy efficiency sits prominently within the plan. The couple’s vision includes super-insulated walls, the integration of cutting-edge heat pump technology, and a marked focus on making the property accessible for people with restricted mobility. Concealed parking provision is another subtle nod to the desire for minimal visual intrusion, making space for at least three vehicles while keeping the area’s pastoral charm intact.
This isn’t the first time a partially underground home has been suggested for this particular spot, however. Two earlier applications, submitted by another party in both 2022 and 2023, were withdrawn following pushback from neighbours and concerns raised in public consultations. Since 2016, various proposals have sought local authority pre-application advice, but none have progressed to fruition.
The key sticking points previously cited included the potential impact on nearby properties—specifically relating to light, views, and community character—as well as issues concerning the Dulas Brook, a cherished natural feature in the locality. The Heeks appear determined to address these objections. Their latest application specifically references prior concerns and incorporates new design elements intended to reduce the environmental and visual footprint of the dwelling.
The careful consideration of both ecological and social factors will doubtless be a central theme as Herefordshire Council weighs up the plans. In a world craving both innovation in housing and respect for local sensibilities, the ‘hobbit house’ could provide an interesting test case—particularly in sensitive border regions.
As the application is reviewed, local residents and enthusiasts of imaginative architecture alike will be watching with interest to see whether this marriage of fantasy and sustainability can be realised in the Welsh Marches. Should permission be granted, Deephallow could become a landmark not just for its subterranean structure, but for showcasing how myth and modern living might intertwine in rural Britain.
The outcome may also encourage others with creative, low-impact home ideas to consider how distinctive architecture can co-exist with and even enhance the unique character of Britain’s countryside. For now, the Heeks wait in hope that their vision for a slice of Middle-earth, right on the border, will soon become a reality.