Title
A distinctly modern and flexible replacement chalet.
Rame Cot - Whitsand Bay, Cornwall.
New build. Completed 2014.
Intro
The chalet is positioned on a secluded spot on the cliffs of Whitsand bay and is enjoyed by three generations of a local family. The siting of the chalet on the plot enables complete privacy, unobstructed sea views, generous external amenity space and the relative protection of an outcrop of cliff below (in the lee of the prevailing wind).
Testimonial
“What Dig Architects have created for us optimises the commanding view of the bay, flooding the interior with light, generating a complete sense of tranquillity”.
The chalet design had to respond to the build-ability issues presented by the location and access, coupled with prescriptive Local Authority design criteria. A solely timber building, both structure and cladding, uses traditional in-keeping forms and materials that are combined with more expansive and asymmetric openings to provide a modern twist.
A bespoke kitchen island, focused out to the sea view, forms the heart of the open plan building – simultaneously linking, and defining, separate functions / zones within the open plan space. Bunk beds are playfully hidden behind the inbuilt kitchen storage, and a mezzanine sleeping deck sits above. The dining bench seating cantilevers out, maximising usable space whilst keeping the footprint within Planning restrictions; this pulls the indoors in and playfully animating the façade. The chalet can comfortably accommodate large groups, or small, offering both a sense of intimacy and space.
The chalet is entered from ‘behind’, out of the prevailing weather and under cover, which doubles as an external lobby to reduce clutter within (whilst providing additional storage inside at high level). This rear entry also shields the view, a continuation of the dense vegetation ‘tunnel’ through which you enter the site, which then adds to the drama of the view once unveiled within. Fixed and opening glazing combines to maximise uninterrupted sea views, blur the boundaries between inside and out, keep supply costs low, and enable natural ventilation that is protected from prevailing winds. Every nook and cranny, in and around the chalet, is utilised – to enable a sense of minimalism and calm.
Testimonial
