Planning permission achieved for slate-wrapped house extension to character property on the Cornish Coast.

VESP architects have received planning permission for a significant addition to the characterful detached property Glensilva. Located on the coastline near Falmouth, Cornwall, this large house is in the process of being lovingly restored and updated by the owners. However, the kitchen facilities were small and located at the rear of the house, with little connection to the dining and living rooms, nor the amazing view across the estuary. The brief therefore was to provide a new kitchen / day room space to the side of the house that complimented the heritage property whilst providing a modern addition that enjoyed excellent views of the coastline.

The external appearance of the extension takes its cue from the house, using the same stonework and roofing slate. The form consists of a slate-wrapped volume at first floor, suspended over planar walls of stone that frame a kitchen and dining area between the boundary wall and the exterior wall of the house. The stonework is purposefully exposed internally to give this space beneath the ‘floating’ slate volume an indoor / outdoor feel. Wrapping the entire first floor volume in slate gives the effect of an inhabited roof space, reducing its perceived height against the main house.

Within the slate-wrapped first floor, an enclosed balcony space flows out from the home office, with an incredible view of the estuary. Below, the kitchen/dining room can fully open up to the garden with sliding doors; but when closed it still feels a part of the garden due to the minimal structure and use of glazing.

We look forward to this project commencing on site this year. For more information please contact us here.

VESP is the exciting new face of van Ellen + Sheryn architects. Since 2006, we have established ourselves as one of the leading RIBA Chartered Architects in Devon and the South West. Our rebranding recognises the growth of the company and the talented team of architects and designers in our studio. VESP design contemporary, high-quality architecture that roots itself in the sensitive landscapes of coast and moorland. For more information, visit our about us page.