The story of remarkable house near Farnley Tyas captured on film

Nov 16 2009 by Barry Gibson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

“There’s been a lot of interest worldwide in Farnley Hey. The house has won an award from the Royal Institute of British Architects and was rated one of the top 12 homes in the world when Joe bought it.”

The house was designed by award-winning architect Peter Womersley and built between 1954 and 1957.

Michael said: “He was inspired by the famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

“Farnley Hey was one of the first open-plan homes in the country. Instead of having rooms it has levels for eating, living and recreation. The use of so much glass is also unique.”

Joe, 89, has altered the house since he bought it in 1959. Michael said: “It wasn’t a particularly big house at first, but he’s extended it.”

The former owner of engineering firms in Marsh and at Folly Hall has also added futuristic features to Farnley Hey.

Michael said: “He’s got a computerised system to open the garage doors, open the curtains and control the temperature. Joe also has a heating system under his drive which goes on whenever it snows.”

Michael, who is originally from Milnsbridge, worked for the BBC and Yorkshire TV as a producer and director before going freelance. His recent credits include a programme for Channel 4’s documentary series Dispatches.