Replacing an outdated 1970’s house, Seahorses is located on a gently sloping site within an AONB and adjacent to the South West Coastal path.  An imaginative and ambitious solution to site levels delivered a house that is lower than the original, creating privacy for the occupants whilst respecting neighbouring homes.

The split-level, linear design is carefully organised around a spine wall of local granite that runs from the exterior of the building through the interior, allowing the living areas and bedrooms to connect with the landscape and integrate seamlessly with outdoor spaces.

A green roof, utilising a mix of grasses, sedum and indigenous coastal plants, embeds the building into its setting.  The palette of natural materials, including stone, zinc and glass, create a layered, permeable effect on the exterior, which with time and weather will assimilate into the natural backdrop.

Landscaping was integral to the design intent and the positioning of the new dwelling within the site allowed significant areas of mature and established planting to be protected and retained.

Photography: Elliot White Photography