New Private House, Bexhill on Sea, Sussex

The brief was to bring the luxury of the LA beach house to Bexhill on Sea. The core of the original load bearing masonry house was retained, and expanded using a steel primary structure, with timber joisted floors and studwork walls. Cantilevers of 1.2 metres were created on two sides to form continuous walkways.

The house is clad in iroko timber, which after weathering will form a silver-white patina that complements the natural tones of the shale beach. Internally the spaces seamlessly flow into each other, both horizontally and vertically. Full-height windows were included to provide views of the sea and beach environment.

At the ground level, the overhanging eaves were designed to provide protection and allow for additional views. And at the uppermost level, a folding glazing system allows the upper room to expand to incorporate the exterior terrace as both an inside and an outside space.

Architect Glas Architects