Tirrenia, Cliff Road

Background

The client for this project approached OSG after acquiring the site in Cliff Road, Hythe, a private drive lined by detached houses encompassing a diverse range of styles. Despite engaging with several architects, our client found others hesitant to accommodate his specific requirements. OSG came highly recommended by the owner of the neighbouring property, with whom they had previously collaborated on a replacement dwelling.

Design for a challenging site

The challenging terrain of the site, characterised by a steep slope to the south and panoramic views of Hythe and the English Channel, inspired a design strategy akin to the adjacent property. OSG conceived a terraced building that gracefully descended from the upper level, down to where the existing dwelling is located. This innovative approach allowed for the creation of a 3½ storey structure that, when viewed from Cliff Road, appeared deceptively as a single-storey residence.

In response to the brief, OSG developed a design that maintained a driveway access route for the neighbouring property by introduced an under-croft with the uppermost floor of the new dwelling running above. A standout feature of the project was the incorporation of the series of external terraced spaces. These areas not only provided stunning views of the sea and embraced the southern exposure but also incorporated screened elements that would ensure privacy for neighbouring properties.

The client's aesthetic preferences were integral to the design, calling for a modern look characterized by flat roofs, generous use of glazing, and a combination of through-coloured render and stonework cladding panelling. The building's frontage was strategically set back from the road, creating a driveway and aligning with the established building line defined by the neighbouring house. Overall, OSG successfully translated the client's vision into a unique and harmonious architectural solution that both complemented the surroundings and met the specific challenges posed by the site.