A sculptural self build on the Kent coast

Sat among the dunes in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this striking home adds something special to the local landscape.

The design of this sculptural build by CZWG Architects, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the Kent coast between Dungeness and Greatstone, was inspired by its surrounding landscape. Not only does this include the distant view of chalk cliffs, but also, perhaps more unusually, the bend in the road it sits upon.

The street front features a sloping, curved salt-glazed brickwork, accentuating the curved road as well as acting as a screen to the wider home, with just the angular, timber-clad porch hinting at what lies beyond.

New perspectives

A combination of irregular and interesting shapes, the home takes on a different character from every angle. At the heart of the building, a large truncated triangle containing the living area, which, in combination with the external timber cladding, CZWG architects describe as echoing “the inverted hulls of ships which feature constantly on the horizon.”

A different level

The master bedroom and living room are on the first floor, with additional bedroom sit on the ground floor – level with the road, but sunk below the seafront dunes for a more intimate setting. A cantilevered terrace hovers above to create a spot for al fresco dining.

Contemporary living

The soft curves of these Ligne Roset Ploum sofas offer a contrast to the angular shapes of the living space, a far cry from atypical seaside interior. A roof-mounted wood-burning stove cuts a striking figure against the double-height window and views of the sea.

The open-plan space is completed with a pared back kitchen with subtle finishes and appliances. On the upper level, there’s another terrace, which offers more privacy from the street and beach.