We were approached by a couple with a 1930s prefabricated bungalow, just inland from Constantine Bay on the rugged North Cornwall coast.
Their aim was to replace the low-quality structure with a contemporary home which drew on it’s coastal context and responded to their lifestyle.
The existing house sat in an established group of homes within a Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Whilst there was a precedent of taller Victorian and Edwardian houses, we chose to keep Juliet's Well to one level to negate its impact.
Respecting established trees and hedgerows within the linear plot, we positioned the new house as a series of interlocked volumes.
Inspired by local timber shacks found along the coastline, four staggered pitched roof structures nestle together with openings carefully positioned - and screened where necessary - to minimise overlooking.
Grounded on a traditional Cornish hedge plinth, the house is clad in pre-weathered timber with lighter tones used for external decking and window frames.
A setback entrance leads to an open plan kitchen/dining room, a generous living room and four bedrooms – all with connections to the garden and courtyards.
Juliet’s Well is designed to have a low environmental impact, constructed in natural materials with provision for photovoltaic panels, an air source heat pump and rainwater harvesting.
Granted planning consent in September 2021, the contemporary home roots itself in the character and beauty of its coastal context, and offers its owners the opportunity to live in harmony with this very special landscape.
