The project was to design a large family house on a beach overlooking the south coast near Totnes, Devon.

 

The site originally had a small fisherman's house however it was demolished many years ago. The location is above the sea wall and the access is through the small village of Torcross down a steep incline. The site was spectacular with a steep forested cliff backdrop, a small leveled area and an extensive sandy beach.

​

Our approach to the site was to create an open plan first floor containing living areas with master bedroom suite, floating over the bedrooms, garage and guest area on the ground floor. The infinite horizontal nature of the beach was the inspiration for the simple linear form of the house. The first floor south facade was almost completely glazed, opening on to a large terrace and west facing external infinity pool. The large overhangs and sliding wooden screens can close the facade and control the solar gain. The roof was landscaped and created a garden for sunbathing overlooking the sea. The ground floor as in contrast to the first floor with small openings set within the masonry wall.

 

The access in was off the steep access road at first floor into a small enclosed courtyard with a large pivot entrance door opening into the hallway with fantastic views of the sea and beach. Internally our approach was to create a large open plan spaces subdivided with light timber screens, to maximise the views and have a seamless transition to the west facing terrace with an infinite pool.  The hall links the two floors and subdivides the lounge/dining from the master suite area. The children’s bedroom, guest wing, garage and utility areas are located on the floor below.

​

Location: Devon, England

​

Images: Buzzbox3d