R I V A A R C H I T E C T S

This demanding brief sought to accommodate a 3-bed house and a 1-bed beachside flat onto a tight site next to St Ouen’s Bay. The character of the natural environment, and the form of the adjoining terrace of buildings were taken to be the main design generators. We were also very aware of the contradiction which exists between the high exposure to the elements driven-in from the Bay to the West and the pleasant southerly aspect enjoyed by the site.

In response to these factors, the three-dimensional form of the house incorporates a ‘protective’ wall which curves around the North & West elevations, containing the accommodation within its leeward side. This ‘sheltering arm’ provides protection to the southern elevation, which benefits from sunny views across the dunes.

In the same tradition of vernacular dwellings, the North elevation is punctured by smaller windows, which offer framed views of L’Etacq while providing greater thermal enclosure.

The roof form respects the adjoining property but is separated from it by the raised roof area over the first floor kitchen, which acts as a visual counterpoint.

Projecting bay windows to the North serve to offer sea views to the rooms they address.

More recently, further extensions have been added to increase the accommodation schedule.