Beachfront property once used as a war barracks now enjoys a delightful transformation into a picturesque Dorset retreat.
The Dorset Beach House: A Modern Coastal Retreat
The Dorset Beach House, a 1907 timber-framed barracks home in Swanage, UK, has been transformed into a contemporary coastal retreat by Architecture for London. Overlooking the sea and sandy dunes of the Ballard Estate, the renovation project beautifully blends modern comfort with the original estate's character.
The materiality of the redesign is organic, with natural materials such as timber flooring, terracotta, and lime plaster used throughout. External timber has been treated with black linseed oil paint, providing a breathable, weatherproof finish that respects the estate's visual character.
The spatial design of the Dorset Beach House is thoughtfully planned, with architectural moments that maximize light and space. The transition from a small entrance porch to a living area with tall, vaulted ceilings, and from the main bedroom to a top-lit ensuite bathroom, create a sense of surprise and discovery. Windows have been strategically placed to frame views of the Ballard Cliffs, and bathrooms feature rooflights to allow natural light while maintaining privacy.
The house has been oriented to take full advantage of the surrounding views, and the play in the height of the rooms and the light quality further enhances these spaces. The window frames have been simplified for uninterrupted views, allowing the beauty of the coastal landscape to be the main focus.
The Dorset Beach House is more than just a home; it's a calming and serene haven, a perfect hideaway to watch the changing tides. Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it exemplifies thoughtful coastal renovation that balances preservation with modern aesthetics, making it a true gem on the Dorset coast.
[1] Architecture for London, (2021). The Dorset Beach House. Retrieved from https://www.architectureforlondon.com/projects/the-dorset-beach-house
[2] Dezeen, (2021). The Dorset Beach House by Architecture for London. Retrieved from https://www.dezeen.com/2021/09/15/dorset-beach-house-architecture-for-london-swanage-uk-interior-design/
- The interior design of the Dorset Beach House, skillfully executed by Architecture for London, harmoniously intertwines modern lifestyle aesthetics with the original home's character, creating a unique home-and-garden blend that functions as a calming sanctuary.
- By focusing on a breathtaking modern coastal retreat and a thoughtful integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, the Dorset Beach House not only serves as a stunning home-and-garden transformation but also sets a benchmark for lifestyle-driven interior design in areas of outstanding natural beauty.
