Dartmouth Creekside Renovation

We were engaged following the covid lockdown in 2020 to investigate ways to make this modest home better connected to its setting, as well as providing much needed additional space. The existing house was originally built in the 60s as a two storey home with a flat roof, and was extended to a third story in the early 2000s. This addition created issues of access with the new stair occupying the old entrance hall. This space was now a cramped entrance, as well as being the main point of access to the upper and lower floors, and also to the kitchen and living spaces.

Navigating Complex Topography & Coastal Materiality

Positioned on the edge of a conservation area, the property occupies an enviable, complex plot on the steep slopes of Warfleet Creek. Situated below road level, a secluded private courtyard acts as a threshold between the street and the home. The building’s exterior has been sensitively updated with a refined, tactile palette of painted render, painted brickwork, and natural cedar cladding that roots the architecture in its coastal setting. As the land drops away toward the creek, the east elevation hovers over the landscape below, with panoramic views of the creek, the river Dart and the South Hams landscape beyond.

Initial designs looked to develop the secret and welcoming nature of the rear courtyard. This space is a sun trap through the day, and offers a welcome respite from the exposed character of the main house. While the views are amazing, sometimes a closer focus is needed along with a quiet corner to escape. We looked to improve the access from the road and create a new entrance in this space, as well as creating a new kitchen and dining room with access to a south facing terrace.

Following planning priorities changed – projects go through many lives and iterations. A lighter touch was called for – less building, but trying to have the same impact and providing a similar set of defined and characterful spaces within the existing volume.

Unlocking Spatial Flow & Undercroft Excavation

The discovery of previously unused undercroft spaces provided the opportunity to satisfy the brief requirements in another way. Now the rear courtyard was to remain as a sun filled retreat and access – more plants and less building. At the entrance level the spaces were to be opened up and connected – both internally and to the hillside terrace. Below, a new stair provides access to a new dining space and utility / kitchenette connected to a sun filled and secluded deck at ground level. At first floor the master suite is complemented by a tranquil study, with the entire home unified by highly refined decoration and interior detailing.

Choreographing the Architectural Journey & Thermal Performance

We like to create a journey through our projects, crafting spaces with different characters and personalities. This deliberate sequencing makes each room special and distinctive, and allows the rooms with a privileged view to be even more special. How you get to a destination is as important as the destination itself.  To ensure the home performs as beautifully as it looks, the thermal fabric was significantly upgraded. The installation of high-performance replacement glazing not only flawlessly frames the privileged coastal views but ensures year-round environmental comfort.

The result is a relaxed and welcoming home, with a variety of different characters for use through the day. Spaces that look out from on high, and spaces away from the view, with an internal focus on the life of the home and the enclosed sunny terrace.