CMS Architects were appointed by the clients, long-time residents of the seaside town of Dorset, who wished to downsize by creating a modest 2-bedroom dwelling to replace a 1-bedroom post-war prefabricated semi-detached unit.

The design of the house responds to a tight constrained site, lying within an unstable ground area, SSSI and AONB, and is informed by the spectacular sea views across Lyme Bay and beyond.

Adopting a traditional pitched roof form, the bulk of the dwelling is broken down through full-height dormers breaking the eaves and roof line, and an interweaving glass balcony making the most of the sea views bisecting the front façade. This provides a crow’s nest style viewing platform and really makes the most of the south westerly view across the Bay.

The external finishes of scorched timber and self-coloured render will ensure the dwelling naturalises within the site and assist in breaking down the scale of the built form. The contemporary detailing and traditional forms combine to create a sustainable 2-bedroom dwelling that sits comfortably within its context, avoiding any adverse impact on both the adjoining property and the wider landscape views.