The Bungalow, Porthtowan: From Existing Bungalow to Contemporary Coastal Home

A journey through the design and construction of one of Laurence Associates recently completed residential projects on Cornwall’s north coast.

Some projects are defined by their setting, and The Bungalow in Porthtowan is certainly one of them.

Positioned on an elevated site overlooking Cornwall’s north coast, the original property was a single storey bungalow with an ancillary outbuilding and annex. Its elevated position provided open views towards the coast and Atlantic, but the multi-level site also presented a number of challenges to overcome.

The project began with a clear ambition: to create a contemporary home that responded to its coastal setting, maximised the available views and provided a carefully considered living environment for the client.

From existing bungalow to new contemporary home

Following extensive design development and planning work, Laurence Associates successfully secured planning permission in April 2023 for the replacement of the existing bungalow.

The proposal involved demolishing the original single storey dwelling and replacing it with a new two storey, flat roofed contemporary home, positioned broadly on the footprint of the existing property.

The result is a home that makes much more of its relationship with the surrounding landscape.

The ground floor provides an open plan kitchen, living and dining space, creating a strong connection with the external timber terrace and entertaining area. A feature staircase sits centrally within the space beneath a generous rooflight, bringing natural light into the heart of the home.

The first floor accommodates the master bedroom, dressing room, study and ensuite, alongside two further bedrooms and additional bathroom accommodation. An external bridge also connects the first floor with the raised garden and rear pathway.

A material palette inspired by Cornwall

Materiality became an important part of the architectural character of The Bungalow.

The external palette combines natural stone, vertical timber cladding and copper detailing, drawing inspiration from the industrial heritage of the Cornish landscape.

The natural stone references the traditional stonework associated with local engine houses and mine workings, while the copper elements provide a subtle connection to Cornwall’s mining history.

High level vertical timber cladding contrasts with the lower-level stonework, creating a contemporary interpretation of materials that feel intrinsically connected to the local landscape. Dark brown and black aluminium windows complete the palette with a refined, understated finish.

Designing with sustainability in mind

Alongside its architectural character, sustainability and energy performance were also considered throughout the project.

The roof incorporates a combination of sedum planting and solar panels, while a Mechanical Heat Recovery and Ventilation system circulates warm, filtered air throughout the home.

These elements demonstrate how environmental considerations can be incorporated into contemporary residential architecture without compromising the design or character of a home.

Following the journey

The finished photographs show the completed home, but they only tell part of the story.

Behind the finished architecture is a journey of planning, design development, construction, material selection and detailed decision making.

A contemporary home rooted in its setting

The Bungalow demonstrates how a challenging coastal site can provide an opportunity for ambitious and carefully considered architecture.

By working with the existing footprint, responding to the site’s levels and taking inspiration from Cornwall’s material and industrial heritage, the project creates a contemporary home that is distinctive while remaining connected to its surroundings.

At Laurence Associates, our multidisciplinary approach brings together planning, architecture, landscape and energy, allowing us to consider a project from multiple perspectives and support our clients from the earliest stages through to completion.

More coming soon about The Bungalow and our portfolio of residential architecture projects.

Truro: 01872 225 259

Exeter: 01392 979 135

Email: hello@laurenceassociates.co.uk