Coastal property construction feat: Excavating a segment of the stone cliff presented a formidable challenge
Heather and Chris's contemporary self-build home in West Cornwall is a remarkable project situated on a steep slope overlooking a popular surf beach. In 2017, the couple discovered a mid-century detached house on the site, which, despite its breathtaking views, was poorly constructed, damp, and barely habitable. The unique location between two headlands offers regular sightings of dolphins, basking sharks, and seals, adding to the property's allure[1].
The home is a 240 sq m contemporary self-build with a steel frame, timber cladding (including charred timber from the all-female team Toasted Wood), zinc features, and a green roof, reflecting an eco-conscious design approach inspired by local architectural styles[1]. Initially, the plan was to renovate the existing structure, but due to its poor state, a complete demolition and rebuild were undertaken[1].
The project faced significant technical challenges, particularly due to the steep slope and only pedestrian access to the site, making logistics and construction notably complicated[1]. To overcome these obstacles, a driveway was engineered, clad in local stone and landscaped to blend with the natural environment, which was a major feat[1].
The team for the build included architect James Hurditch and building contractor Jonathan Manser, both experts and former acquaintances from a previous renovation project Heather and Chris completed in 2008[1]. The collaboration ensured expertise and reliability throughout the challenging process.
In terms of eco-friendly features, the use of sustainable timber cladding, zinc, and a green roof demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and blending with the natural surroundings[1]. The green roof likely contributes to insulation and biodiversity benefits, while the charred timber (shou sugi ban technique) is durable and low maintenance, aligning with eco-conscious design principles[1].
The house is pedestrian-accessible only and features sliding doors onto the terrace that face directly into the spectacular sunsets[1]. The local authority granted permission for an extraordinary three-bedroom home, spread across two levels, complete with a large deck, garage, and a unique cantilevered design[1].
The house is close to Passivhaus standards and includes a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system[1]. Sustainable solutions also include a ground source heat pump, solar photovoltaic panels on the roof, and a Tesla Powerwall battery[1]. The main bedroom enjoys a corner location with sweeping views of the beach, harbour, and sunsets[1].
The village above the beach is popular with visitors and locals alike[1]. The property's construction took five years to complete, addressing various technical challenges, including dealing with the volume of water coming off the hillside, and solving the water issue with solutions such as diverting springs, building a water harvesting tank under the house, and waterproofing the concrete[1].
Heather and Chris's self-build home is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and a commitment to sustainability. It is a thoughtfully designed contemporary self-build that overcame steep-site access and construction challenges, incorporates sustainable materials and design elements, and enjoys exceptional natural surroundings in West Cornwall[1].
[1] Source: Self-Build & Design Magazine, Issue 12, 2022.
- The contemporary self-build home of Heather and Chris in West Cornwall features a green roof, reflecting an eco-conscious design approach.
- The team for the build included architect James Hurditch and building contractor Jonathan Manser, both experts with a shared history.
- The house's sliding doors open onto the terrace, offering direct views of the sunsets.
- The unique cantilevered design of the house, complete with a large deck and garage, was granted permission by the local authority.
- The project aimed to incorporate eco-friendly features, such as sustainable timber cladding, a green roof, and solar photovoltaic panels on the roof.
- The mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system and ground source heat pump in the house contribute to its sustainability.
- The home's main bedroom offers sweeping views of the beach, harbour, and sunsets.
- The home is situated on a steep slope with only pedestrian access, making construction challenging, but the team overcame these obstacles.
- The house is close to Passivhaus standards and includes waterproofing measures to address the volume of water coming off the hillside.
- The self-build home is a testament to Heather and Chris's commitment to sustainability, perseverance, and a lifestyle that blends with the natural surroundings of West Cornwall.
