I've got a farm in Somerset, and I think it's God's own country. I love it.

Life involves other people and it is a compromise.

If you said to me, 'Lie down on that concrete floor and fall asleep,' I could do it. I can sleep anywhere at any time of day on any surface.

Building design isn't trendy.

Every decently-made object, from a house to a lamp post to a bridge, spoon or egg cup, is not just a piece of 'stuff' but a physical embodiment of human energy, testimony to the magical ability of our species to take raw materials and turn them into things of use, value and beauty.

Building your own home is about desire, fantasy. But it's achievable; anyone can do it.

It's possible to be satisfied with a day's work or a cake, but a life... what is a life but a history of events badly remembered?