The Bungalow

This amazing site on Cornwall’s north coast contained a single-story house known as The Bungalow, which is in an elevated position on Westcliff in Porthtowan. There is a detached ancillary outbuilding used for recreational purposes and an annex on the site also. The property sits on a multi-levelled site and due to the property’s elevated beach front position, can enjoy open views of the coast and the Atlantic.

After successfully gaining planning permission in April 2023 on this challenging and high-profile site, the proposed scheme involved the demolition of the existing single-storey residence and be replaced by the construction of a two-storey flat roofed contemporary dwelling maximising views to the sea. This new project sits on the current dwelling’s footprint, albeit marginally smaller.

The ground floor hosts an open plan kitchen and spacious living/dining area with a direct connection to an external timber terrace and entertaining area. Also on this floor, is a shower room with WC, and a practical boot/utility room. A feature stair sits centrally in the space lit by a generous rooflight above. The stair leads to the first floor which incorporates a master bedroom with a linked dressing room, study and ensuite bathroom, as well as two additional bedrooms, one with an ensuite, and a separate bathroom. An external bridge connection also joins this floor to allow access to the raised garden and path to the rear of the site.

The client has been very hands on from the beginning in all areas of the design and detailing and the external material selection plays a pivotal role in the look and quality of the house. High level vertical timber cladding and low-level natural stone predominantly adorning the south and west elevations. The inspiration for the materials was the stone used to build the local engine houses and mine works combined with the copper cladding referencing the local mining heritage. Windows are proposed to be finished in brown/black aluminium, adding an understated but refined touch to the overall design.

The roof is covered in a combination of sedum and solar panels connected to the Mechanical Heat Recovery and Ventilation system that runs throughout the house circulating warm, fresh filtered air around the house, throughout the year.

The project is currently on site with an estimated completion date of November 2024.

Be sure to check back for further updates.