Our clients bought the house in 2011. It sits on a thin plot of land on the southeast of Jersey and enjoys private access to the beach. Built in the 1990s, it was intended to imitate the fishermens' cottages that were once spread along the coast. We were inspired by the building’s historical context. During the 1800s, this part of the Island was full of shipyards building boats to serve the local fishing fleet and the roaring trade that Jerseymen were doing fishing for cod on the banks of Newfoundland.

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Unfortunately, the modern house did not respond to its surroundings. It suffered from poor spatial flow, disconnected internal spaces and didn't make the most of the magnificent coastal views. In their brief to us, the family required a larger kitchen and a living space that would embrace the garden and sea-views. They felt, as did we, that the heart of the house must be linked to its surroundings. 

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Our response was to construct a single storey, rear extension along the south-eastern boundary. This gave more living space, maximised natural daylight and views, and created much better spatial flow between inside and out. Refined materials were used throughout the building to seamlessly link old and new. Iroko hardwood, locally-cast concrete worktops, anthracite zinc and crisp white render work in harmony to create a design that responds to its brief and its environment.

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Large hardwood timber frames, reminiscent of those from a ship’s hull form the main structure. These elegant features enclose the living and dining spaces and are clad with a zinc protective skin. The roof tapers to a thin edge, inviting the view and light into the heart of the house. 

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The design has re-imagined a tired bungalow, creating a family home that has changed the way its owners live.