A historical war barracks is renovated into an enchanting seaside residence in Dorset.
News Article: Transforming a Historic Beach House into a Modern Retreat
The Dorset Beach House in Swanage, UK, has been beautifully transformed into a contemporary coastal residence by Architecture for London, led by director Ben Ridley. Originally built as barracks in 1907, the timber-framed home now nestles above sandy dunes, overlooking the sea and Ballard Cliffs.
The main refurbishment aimed to create a light-filled space with a warm, cabin-like interior, using natural materials like timber flooring, terracotta tiles, and lime plaster. The exterior timber is finished with black linseed paint, providing a breathable, weatherproof surface that respects and honors the original visual character of the Ballard Estate.
The design emphasizes the play of natural light and room height to create a sense of openness and surprise within a relatively simple and traditional building shape. Notable architectural moments include the transition from a modest entrance porch to a living area with tall, vaulted ceilings, and the connection from the main bedroom to a top-lit en-suite bathroom.
Rooflights in the bathrooms flood the spaces with natural light while maintaining privacy. Large windows in the bedrooms frame coastal views, maintaining a strong connection to the changing tides and sea scenery. Simplified window frames were implemented to provide clean, uninterrupted views.
Adapting the existing structure of the Dorset Beach House while preserving its character was a significant challenge during the refurbishment. The original timber frame was found to be rotten in places, requiring careful restoration work.
The coastal setting, with its salt, wind, and driving rain, contributed to the wear and tear of the building. The use of black linseed paint honours the visual character of the Ballard Estate, offering a durable, weather-resistant finish.
The Dorset Beach House, now complete, offers a calming and serene atmosphere, making it a perfect hideaway to watch the changing tides. It serves as a relaxing haven after a day of water sports or hiking in the area, providing a modern retreat that respects its historic roots.
[1] Architecture for London, "Dorset Beach House," 2021. [Online]. Available: https://architectureforlondon.com/dorset-beach-house/
[3] Dezeen, "Dorset Beach House by Architecture for London," 2021. [Online]. Available: https://www.dezeen.com/2021/06/03/dorset-beach-house-swanage-architecture-for-london-renovation-uk/
The interior design of the Dorset Beach House, transformed by Architecture for London, incorporates natural materials and a warm, cabin-like atmosphere, enhancing its lifestyle as a modern retreat in a home-and-garden setting. Large windows in the bedrooms provide uninterrupted views of the changing tides and sea scenery, adding to the serene atmosphere and fostering a strong connection with the surrounding nature.
