Extensions & renovations

A dower by the sea

Project Overview

Fort Le Crocq, originally a fort constructed after 1832, is now a contemporary home on the west coast. This project involved extending an existing outbuilding to create a refined dower unit, carefully integrated into its coastal setting just 25 metres from the sea.

Client Brief

The brief was to create flexible independent living accommodation with minimal intervention to the existing structure, while maintaining the character of the natural materials and the wider setting. Accessibility, comfort and long-term adaptability were key priorities for our clients.

Design Concept

The design sought to integrate the extension carefully into the established setting, retaining the existing cedar shingles and copper rainwater goods while introducing a contemporary material palette that visually links back to the main house. The architecture was shaped by the coastal location, with a glazed corner framing views to the sea and drawing natural light.

Challenges & Solutions

The exposed coastal location and restricted site access presented challenges during both design and construction. These were addressed through efficient detailing and a considered construction methodology. Environmental performance was also carefully considered, with the north-east facing glazed corner and advanced door system helping to manage solar gain while maximising comfort and thermal efficiency.

Key Features

• Retention of cedar shingles and copper rainwater goods to preserve continuity with the existing buildings
• Glazed corner detail framing sea views and bringing natural light into the interior
• Flush thresholds and reconfigured landscaping to improve accessibility while retaining established planting and coastal views

Results

The completed accommodation provides flexible independent living with minimal intervention to the existing structure. Balancing the warmth and character of natural materials with clean contemporary detailing, the project creates a light-filled and efficient home that sits comfortably within its historic coastal setting.

We were pleased to manage this project from design concept through to completion.

This project was created in collaboration with:

  •  JW Rihoy
  • CBL
  • Cucine
  •  Henderson Green
  • IQ
  •  Sensbile
  • ACE (blinds)