Bayview is a recently completed new-build house located on the cliff-top above Bigbury On Sea, in South Devon. It commands an outstanding vantage point with panoramic views across the whole bay, from Bantham right across to Burgh Island.
The client brief was to refurbish the existing property and extend it in order to maximise enjoyment of the coastal views. The design focused around two key spaces; a central dining area / sun-room overlooking Bantham that forms the heart of the home, and a generous living room at the western end of the house, with vaulted ceilings and views out over Bigbury and Burgh Island.
Large areas of slim-line glazing in both these areas were key to providing the panoramic views out, and the improved connection with the garden. Ecohaus Internorm were brought in to provide both the high-end glazing system, and the replacement upvc/aluminium composite windows to the rest of the property.
The vaulted ceiling of the living room provides height and drama to the home, as a counterpoint to the flat ceilings of other rooms in the house. Kiln-dried Oak trusses, beautifully fabricated by a local company with stainless steel tie-rods, provide the structure and add visual interest and rhythm to the space. The expansive glazing brings huge amounts of light into the rooms; however to ensure the space does not overheat in the summer months, western red cedar brise soliel were located above to shade the spaces inside.
Early on in the construction period, it was unfortunately discovered that the existing house was significantly damaged by water-ingress and general poor construction, and the decision to completely demolish and rebuild the house was made. This entailed a brand-new planning application and revised set of construction information, but allowed for a new, well insulated and well constructed house.
Whilst the house has maintained a fairly traditional appearance, it is completely modern inside, with clean, bright spaces, contemporary kitchen and bathrooms, and LED lighting throughout. The old oil boiler was removed, and replaced with an Air-Source Heat Pump. This heats the house through underfloor heating, and combined with the high levels of insulation now within the floor, walls and roof, it creates a very energy efficient home.
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