striking the high note

brighton, east sussex

The starting point for this project was a neglected hillside 1950’s detached property with dramatic views. Initial explorations into extending and reconfiguring the home highlighted several limitations. Our client, the agent for several prominent internationally renown rock bands, wanted to create a highly contemporary and energy efficient home that captured the sea views. We agreed quite quickly that the best way to meet these goals would be to demolish the existing building and start again.

A zinc asymmetrical butterfly roof, grey coloured render, dark engineering bricks and slate make up the contemporary palette. Upon crossing a bridge to enter the home, the stunning southerly aspect out to sea welcomes you in. A sculptural staircase frames a dramatic double height hall and reveals further panoramic views. A balcony runs the width of the south aspect of the house. There is a raised south facing terrace at ground height level and a sunken patio at the lower ground floor.

The colourful and playful kitchen complements the minimalist interior and stands out against the polished plaster walls and concrete floors.

In response to the desire for an energy efficient home, solar thermal and PV panels are integrated into the roof. A brise soleil manages solar gain and roof lights open when required for passive stack ventilation. Underfloor heating makes for toasty floors as well as uncluttered walls. Rainwater is harvested to irrigate the landscaped garden.